Addressing the challenge of clean water, the Flow-Assisted Desiccant Solar Still (FADSS) harnesses atmospheric water using solar energy, extending the capabilities of conventional Desiccant Solar Stills (DSS). Unlike traditional DSS, FADSS incorporates a small blower for forced air circulation, overcoming limitations in bed configuration design and desiccant capacity. Unlike DSS, it enhances efficiency by transporting vapour to a separate place for condensation. During the adsorption process (nighttime), ambient air circulates through the silica bed, facilitating moisture adsorption. Solar energy heats the bed, releasing water vapour into the air, which carries it to the condenser for efficient condensation during the desorption process (daytime).

The FADSS mainly comprises a desiccant box, a DC blower, a copper tube heat exchanger, a desiccant bed, and a collecting jar. Optimization of FADSS focuses on critical parameters such as airflow rate (11 to 60 litres per minute) and bed thickness (20 to 70 mm) to maximize water production. The study also explores four-bed design configurations, evaluating their impact on water production and calculating the thermal efficiency of the FADSS for comprehensive performance assessment. Results indicate that a honeycomb bed with a thickness of 30 mm and an airflow rate of 30 litres per minute yields the highest water production. This research provides valuable insights into enhancing atmospheric water harvesting systems, offering a sustainable solution to the growing global demand for clean water.