The United Arab Emirates University has successfully registered a new patent titled “Direct solar water desalination system with enhanced desalination” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. This groundbreaking invention, developed by Dr. Fadi Al-Naimat and researcher Muhammad Ziauddin, focuses on utilizing renewable energy to desalinate seawater, thereby producing high-quality drinking water at a low cost.

The newly developed system harnesses the natural processes of evaporation and condensation, eliminating the need for external energy sources. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also promotes sustainability. Key components of the system include a central chamber with a sloped roof, zigzag panels, copper wires coated with a photothermal layer, reflective surfaces, and supply and collection tanks.

Operationally, seawater flows through the system via gravity, where it passes over copper wires coated with a heat-conducting layer, facilitating evaporation. The system is projected to yield up to 10 liters of freshwater per day per square meter of solar absorption area, making it particularly suitable for regions grappling with freshwater scarcity.

Dr. Fadi Al-Naimat emphasized that this project marks a significant stride toward leveraging renewable energy sources more sustainably and effectively. Researcher Muhammad Ziauddin highlighted that the system’s innovative structural design enhances the evaporation process and boosts freshwater productivity.

The United Arab Emirates University reaffirms its steadfast support for scientific research and innovation, underscoring its hope that this invention will play a pivotal role in conserving water resources in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.