SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL REVIEW OF HEAT AND HYDRODYNAMIC PROCESS INTENSIFICATION IN SOLAR WATER AND AIR COLLECTORS

Hybrid water–air solar collectors (HSCs) enhance the performance of conventional flat-plate collectors by simultaneously utilizing water and air as heat transfer media. This study reviews recent developments in collector configurations and thermo-hydrodynamic enhancement techniques, including modified air channels, ribbed geometries, porous media, and optimized mass flow rates. The analyzed literature shows that combined air–water operation significantly improves thermal and exergetic efficiency compared to single-purpose collectors, with efficiencies exceeding 70% under optimal conditions. Additionally, the integration of HSCs into solar desalination systems has demonstrated promising freshwater productivity and improved overall thermal performance. The findings confirm that thermo-hydrodynamic intensification is essential for expanding the application range and energy efficiency of hybrid solar collectors in sustainable heating and desalination systems.