Experimental Investigation of Effect of Meteorology and Turbidity on Operation of Salt Gradient Solar Pond in the Tropics

Abstract

The experimental studies are carried out at the location having tropical climate. An underground pond of size 1m x 1 m x 2.5 m is constructed. Meteorology has strong influence on the thermal performance of pond. This study has reported that starting day is an important consideration in thermal performance analysis. Starting day affects the rate of warm-up and cumulative heat collection significantly. Estimated the rate of turbidity accumulation and observed that the turbidity can be effectively removed, but cannot be reduced to zero level. Results are of practical importance as a data base for the pond operators and researchers.