A comprehensive review on dehumidification system using solid desiccant for thermal comfort in HVAC applications

Abstract

In comfort, air-conditioning control over the humidity is essential in applications such as pharmaceutical industries, electronic gadgets manufacturing units, the food sector, paper industries, etc. Relative humidity of nearly 50% can effectively prevent the growth and abidance of biological pollutants. There are several methods using which dehumidification can be achieved. The most common method is subcooling air up to the condensation temperature of the moisture trapped and then cooling again, and the condensate is collected. This method is time-consuming and needs to be more effective. On the other hand, desiccants’ dehumidification process is suitable for maintaining humidity in air-conditioning systems and producing dry air. Desiccants with economical materials, high moisture removal rate, low regeneration temperature, and steadiness after many years make a desiccant system more successful in its performance and cost. The effect of change in process air temperature, process air humidity ratio, and regeneration temperature on the system's performance is studied. This research focuses on the functioning of various desiccant dehumidification systems and their applications. A comparative study of the different dehumidification systems found efficiency, low maintenance cost, and high sustainability.