Prediction of Heat and Mass Regenerator Performance Using Nonlinear Analogy Method: Part 1—Basis

Abstract

Coupled heat and mass transfer between fluid streams by a regenerator with a sorbent matrix may be predicted by the superposition of two independent regenerators, in each of which transfer is driven by a combined potential, analogous to temperature in a similar regenerator transferring heat alone. An air-conditioning regenerator for energy recovery or dehumidification with convective transfer controlling is considered. The combined potentials and associated specific capacities are examined, and the nature of the analogy explored, in view of the dependence of matrix sorption properties on state. Approximate nonlinear expressions for the combined potentials, applicable to air-conditioning regenerators, are derived and utilized.