WESLEY TAN
Industrial Designer + Engineer
Qatar Solar Still
QATAR SOLAR STILL
A land of many contrasts, Qatar has one of the largest natural gas reserves in the world but lacks an adequate natural water source.
99% of its water is supplied by desalination plants, which are energy intensive and produce as much carbon emissions as its oil and gas industry.
The Qatar Solar Still produces water from brine, a waste product of the desalination process, using nothing more than the sun’s energy. An array of stills at the city mosques produces water for ritual washing before prayer.
storage tanks
solar still
solar-powered
water pump
ritual washing area
Solar Distillation
Evaporation of the brine produces pure water, which condenses on the glass panels and is collected and stored in the interconnected storage tanks at each end.
Salt Collection
A by-product of the solar distillation process, salt is collected using a vacuum truck for use in industrial processes. Once emptied, each compartment is refilled with brine delivered from the desalination plants.
Water Conservation
To reduce wastage, a metered quantity of water fills a clear glass vessel which supplies the tap. This enables the user to gauge his water usage rate as he performs the cleansing process.
Energy Conservation
A solar-powered water pump generates its own energy requirements during daylight hours.
Sustainable Construction
Pilkington Activ glass
Self-cleaning, hydrophobic to minimise algae growth, recyclable
Stainless steel glazing frame
Corrosion-resistant, durable, recycled and recyclable
Reconstituted limestone structure
Utilises waste by-product of limestone industry, more durable than natural limestone
Plant-fibre composite tanks and basins
Avoids toxic petroleum compounds, no paint required, recyclable