Experimental analysis of dehumidification system with natural composite desiccant coating on staggered hexagonal aluminium channels

Abstract

This study aimed to develop an eco-friendly natural composite desiccant (NCD) for building cooling. NCD is a mixture of dried cow dung (DCD) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) for use in a dehumidification bed with staggered hexagonal aluminium channels (SHACs). The natural composite desiccant was prepared by coating the mixture onto the channels with a 2:1 ratio of DCD:PVP. The maximum moisture uptake (MUC) and moisture uptake rate of the NCD was tested under different relative humidities (RH) and temperatures, and regeneration of NCDs was performed to maintain optimal performance. The results of the study showed that the NCD-coated SHACs dehumidification system had a high uptake capacity, with MUC values ranging from 8.34 to 14.31 g/100 g at different RH and temperature conditions. The system also showed an average uptake capacity rate of 0.26 g/100 g?min and a desorption rate of 0.51 g/100 g?min. Furthermore, the moisture flow design of the NCD-coated SHACs bed resulted in a low-pressure drop of 0.13 kPa, which was significantly lower than the NCD-packed bed. The study also calculated total heat load reduction at different inlet conditions. Eco-friendly dehumidification offers significant environmental benefits, and promising sustainable solutions. © 2024 Elsevier B.V.