A diffusion driven desalination apparatus and related method includes structure
for receiving a heated water stream and creating at least one region having a thin
film of water and structure for forcing a low humidity air stream over the thin
film of water, wherein water from the thin film of water evaporates and diffuses
into the air stream to create a humidified air stream. A diffusion tower including
at least one plenum can be used to create and transfer the humidified air stream.
At least one condenser, such as a direct contact condenser, condenses the humidified
air stream, wherein purified water is produced. Waste heat from a power plant can
be used to provide the heated water stream and power plants can use the waste heat
generated to inexpensively provide purified water.
