Abstract:
In this paper, a mathematical model was developed, and numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the
direct contact membrane distillation process (DCMD) utilizing solar energy. The objective is to identify the
optimal operating point, flow parameters, dimensions, and membrane properties of membrane module in terms
of permeate water flux and GOR. The novel aspect of this paper is to analyze the flow patterns in the feed and
permeate regions on performance of DCMD to maximize water production by optimizing the balance between
permeate water flux and GOR. Additionally, the study will identify the most suitable location for installing the
MD system based on factors such as solar energy availability and average annual temperature. The results show
that the polyethylene (PE) membrane provides the highest permeate water flux, while the polytetrafluoro-
ethylene (PTFE) membrane provides the highest GOR. A significant increase in permeate water flux and GOR is
observed when the flow changes from laminar to turbulent. The study also examines the effect of membrane
module dimensions, where increasing the length decreases flux but increases GOR, while increasing the width
increases flux but decreases GOR. The study also reveals that countries with high annual average temperatures
produce higher permeate water flux and GOR. The paper also delves into the effect of membrane properties on
water flux and GOR. It is observed that a membrane with high porosity, low thickness, and having a pore size
greater than 0.14 μm is desirable.
