Quick Answer
To construct a solar still, you need a container or hole to collect the condensed water, a tray or plate to hold the water collection area, a clear plastic sheet or tarp, and a rock or heat source to concentrate the sunlight.
Materials Needed
To build a basic solar still, gather the following materials: a shallow hole or container (at least 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide), a tray or plate to hold the water collection area, a clear plastic sheet or tarp (at least 10 feet by 10 feet), a rock or heat source, and a container to collect the distilled water. Make sure the materials are clean and free of contaminants.
Construction Steps
Start by digging a hole or creating a depression in the ground. Place the tray or plate in the center of the hole, making sure it’s level and secure. Cover the tray with the clear plastic sheet or tarp, weighing down the edges with rocks. Place a small rock or heat source in the center of the plastic sheet to concentrate the sunlight. Place a small container or cup in the center of the tray to collect the distilled water.
Maintenance and Optimization
To optimize the solar still’s performance, make sure the plastic sheet is clean and free of wrinkles. Use a rock or weight to keep the plastic sheet taut and secure. Avoid disturbing the water collection area or the heat source, as this can disrupt the still’s operation. With proper construction and maintenance, a solar still can produce up to 4 cups of clean drinking water per hour, depending on the sunlight intensity and ambient temperature.
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