Performance and design analyses of various configurations of dew point evaporative cooling-based desiccant air-conditioning (DAC) systems for hot and humid conditions

Abstract Thermally driven desiccant- and evaporative cooling-based technologies are promising greener cheaper alternatives to compressor-based systems due the separate handling of latent sensible loads. Desiccant air-conditioning (DAC) comprise a desiccant dehumidifier, cooling unit, heat source for regeneration, recovery unit. These components DAC system can be arranged in various ways give different configurations with varying advantages disadvantages. In this study, five thermally dehumidifier- dew point (DPEC)-based were investigated. Seven evaluation criteria namely regeneration temperature, moisture removal capacity, COPt, DPEC L/H, exchanger UA, size, fan power requirement employed. Results show that standard cycle ventilation mode offers highest COPt despite having temperature. Recirculation return room air operate at significantly lower temperature expense larger equipment size much COPt. an internally cooled dehumidification low higher slightly Dividing process into two stages offer operation moderately without severely affecting other criteria. This study serve as guide selection appropriate configuration space depending on objective resources available.