Parametric study of a packed bed dehumidifier/regenerator using CaCl 2 liquid desiccant

Abstract

The processes occurring in a packed bed dehumidifier, which is part of a liquid desiccant solar cooling system, are mathematically simulated. The air flows in a counter flow direction to the liquid desiccant (CaCl 2). The effect of varying the air, liquid flow rates and bed geometry are studied in addition to studying the effect due to varying the air and liquid desiccant inlet coditions. The inlet temperature of the liquid desiccant during the air dehumidification process has a strong effect on the other parameters, while the air inlet temperature has a negligible effect. It is also noticed that higher temperatures of air and while the air inlet temperature has a negligible effect. It is also noticed that higher temperatures of air and liquid desiccant enhance the liquid desiccant regeneration processes but by different ratios. The study showed that both the air and liquid desiccant flow rates have negligible effect on the bed exit humidity ratio of air whereas the liquid flow rate has a strong effect on the bed exit moisture content of the liquid. It is also observed that increasing the air flow rate enhances the liquid desiccant regeneration (air humidification) process. Regardless of the inlet moisture content of the liquid desiccant, it is found that as the product ( LA s ) gets larger, the exit air humidity gets less.