How to Prepare Glass for a Solar Still

A solar still is a closed system that should be maintained free of insects and bacteria. Chipped, cracked or broken glass may invite pests. Harsh weather conditions, temperature changes, flying debris, and curious animals are reasons to choose tempered glass for this project. If tempered glass is unavailable, any smooth glass that is large enough to form a seal on top of the still can be used. The glass should be prepared with a bleach solution to ensure surface bacteria has been removed from the inner surface of the pane, where the actual fresh water is expected to accumulate.

Things You'll Need

• Sawhorse
• Large, clean towel
• Clean cloth
• Brick
• Spray bottle (1 quart)
• Plain, unscented bleach (1/4 teaspoon)
• Water (1 gallon)
• Rubber/plastic gloves
• Goggles

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Instructions

Preparation

• 1

  A solar still can remove salt from sea water.

  Set the sawhorse on even ground, preferably outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Place a large, clean towel on the floor in front of the sawhorse.

• 2

  Gently place the pane of glass on the towel in front of the sawhorse, and lean it back at a slight angle to rest against the sawhorse. Place the brick in front of the pane to keep it from slipping out of place.

• 3

  Don rubber/plastic gloves and protective goggles. Take a clean, 1-quart plastic spray bottle and fill it to the neck with clear water, Add 1/4 teaspoon of plain, unscented household bleach to the spray bottle and tightly attach the spray cap. Shake gently to mix the bleach with the water.

• 4

  Take the spray bottle in one hand and the clean cloth in the other hand. Spray and wipe the glass pane, starting at the top and working your way down until you reach the brick. Let air dry. Then flip the pane so that the bottom portion that was by the brick is now at the top. Repeat the cleaning process, and let the pane air dry.

• 5

  Handle the glass with clean gloves and attach the glass to the still soon after preparation. Be sure to have the prepared surface facing down into the still when assembling the still.