Equilibrium Moisture Effects in Silica Gel Adsorption/Desorption

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This research involves a numerical analysis focused on examining how the initial moisture content and equilibrium moisture content affect a Regular Density (RD) silica gel-packed bed, in terms of the composite mass and heat transfer dynamics during the adsorption and desorption processes. The detailed interaction between the air and the desiccant material is thoroughly represented through the development of the governing drying kinetics, mass conservation, and energy conservation equations, thereby establishing a solid mathematical foundation to clarify these essential processes. All numerical simulations are meticulously executed using the Finite Volume Element method, allowing for a detailed analysis of the mass and heat transfer phenomena within the RD silica gel-packed bed. The utilization of this advanced computational technique enables a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between the moisture content and transfer process efficiency in the desiccant system. This research culminates in the development of correlations that serve as predictive tools. An accurate estimation is facilitated by both the removal/addition of humidity from/to the air and the maximum enthalpy released/absorbed by the RD silica gel medium throughout the adsorption and desorption phases. These correlations, rooted in the equilibrium and initial moisture content of the RD silica gel medium, provide valuable insights into optimizing the performance and efficiency of desiccant systems in various operating conditions. There are intricate relationships between moisture content and transfer processes. This study contributes to advancing the understanding of desiccant systems, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable air treatment technologies.