Non-convecting solar ponds

Abstract

A salt gradient is imposed on a black-bottomed pond about 1 m deep; this creates a density gradient (positive measured downwards) which suppresses convection when the pond is heated from the bottom by absorbed solar radiation. Between 15 and 25% of the incident radiation, depending upon pond cleanliness, reaches the bottom and can be decanted by stratified hydrodynamic flow of the bottom layer. Temperatures approaching the boiling point have been recorded. At 32 degrees latitude and under Israel sunshine conditions, estimated annual thermal output from a pond of 1 km$^{2}$ is equivalent to 43 000 t of fuel oil. A method of avoiding salt diffusion, which would slowly destroy the gradient, is described. Practical problems include suppression of surface mixing by wind and the possible effects of heating large areas of ground.