Advances in Sustainable Humidification-Dehumidification Thermal Desalination Systems: Analysis, Process Integration, and Materials, 4e - Chapter 1: Need for low-grade heat-driven desalination systems

In this chapter, the importance of small-scale thermal desalination such as humidification–dehumidification (HDH) for lowering greenhouse gases emission of supplying water will be discussed. Low-grade heat sources with temperatures low than 150°C, such as industrial waste heat, solar energy, and geothermal energy resources, can be used in HDH, membrane distillation, and adsorption desalination systems. The three basic disadvantages of using low-grade heat to power desalination systems are low-temperature heat source, low thermal efficiency, and intermittent operation. The roles of energy storage systems such as phase-change materials and systems for upgrading low-grade heat sources such as heat pumps are critical for successful operation of HDH desalination systems.