A review of the application of hybrid nanofluids in solar still energy systems and guidelines for future prospects

Improving the thermo-physical characteristics of water by the simple process of suspending nano-size particles may enhance the performance of solar distillation systems. More solar energy can be absorbed by the nanofluid and condensing cover of the solar still, thanks to the enhanced characteristics that magnify the temperature differential between the two. To systematically evaluate the latest progress in using nanofluids in a solar still energy system, this review intends to cover the most recent published studies between 2020 and 2024.Examining the impact of integrated hybrid nanofluid with solar still energy systemson water productivity is the primary focus of this review. The analysis also highlights different key aspects, including the system layout, type and concentration of nanoparticles, as well as water productivity. The findings demonstrate that by adding Al₂O₃ at concentrations of0.1 %,0.2 %, and 0.3 %, traditional solar still productivity can be enhanced to 4.9, 5.47, and 6.12 L/m², respectively. In addition, as compared to a standard solar still devoid of nanoparticles, the cumulative productivity of a modified solar still using a hybrid nanofluid may be elevated by 11.6 %. Additionally, hybrid nanofluids may increase daily water production by 27.2 % in the summer and 21.7 % in the winter, all because of their differing operating temperatures. To further promote the use of nanofluids in solar still energy systems and guarantee an increase in total efficiency, this investigation provides a number of research recommendations for future studies. Seemingly, this has the potential to increase the utilisation of hybrid nanofluids in solar distillationsystems with the aim of boosting the absorbed energy.