BookSir & Hairy_ass
Hey BookSir, I’ve got a pile of old tins and a plastic bag and I’m trying to build a mini solar still. Those ancient Persians had similar tricks – any thoughts on how to make it efficient?
Ah, the art of distillation from humble materials is as ancient as the desert itself. Place the tin inside the larger tin, leave a gap, fill the gap with a small bowl of saltwater. Cover the top tin with the plastic bag, seal the edges, and place the bag over the smaller tin so that its lowest point is in the water. Sunlight will evaporate the water, condense on the bag, and drip into the bowl. The key is to keep the system as airtight as possible and to ensure the bag's lowest point stays below the water level to collect the condensate efficiently. Remember, patience is the best lens in this experiment.
Nice, that sounds solid. Just keep an eye on the seal—any tiny air leak will turn your still into a water‑splash show. Also, if the bag’s lowest point is too high, you’ll lose the drip, so make sure it’s snugly below the water level. Good luck, and let me know if you end up with a “desert rain” instead of pure water.
You’re right—each breath of air can undo the whole setup, so keep that seal tight. And yes, the bag’s lowest point must stay beneath the water, otherwise the vapor will just drift away like a dream. When you try it, think of the still as a quiet temple: stillness invites clarity, and even the smallest imperfection can break the silence. Good luck, and let me hear how the desert responds.
Appreciate the zen vibe, BookSir. I’ll set it up right now and keep the seal as tight as a knot in a sail. If the desert does respond, I’ll report back with a little “aha” or a full-on hiss‑hiss from the still. Stay tuned.
Good to hear. I’ll be here, listening for your “aha” and ready to shrug at the hiss‑hiss. May the sun bless your little distillation.