Hydrophilic Polymers as Heat and Mass Exchangers

Abstract

Abstract Recent work on the use of wool in heat- and mass-exchange systems is summarized. Improvements in the transfer of water vapor (e.g., between the inlet and outlet ducts of an air conditioner) have been obtained by application of hydrophilic polymers to the surface of wool fibers. Further improvements in water sorption are obtained by inclusion of deliquescent salts. Drip formation does not occur at high humidities, presumably because of the viscous nature of the polymer/water system. Wool is shown to be a more suitable substrate than polyester.