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Optimization of the Liquid Desiccant Cooling Systems in Hot and Humid Areas

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  • Yanling Zhang

    (School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
    Renewable Energy Research Group, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Hao Zhang

    (School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Hongxing Yang

    (Renewable Energy Research Group, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

  • Yi Chen

    (College of Marine Equipment and Mechanical Engineering, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China)

  • Chun Wah Leung

    (School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China)

Abstract

Air-conditioning systems in hot and humid regions account for over 50% of total energy usage. Integrating an indirect evaporative cooling ( I E C ) and a liquid desiccant dehumidifier ( L D D ) as the liquid desiccant cooling system ( L D C S ) presents an energy-saving and emission-reducing solution to replace traditional mechanical vapor compression refrigeration ( M V C R ) systems. This integration overcomes the regional limitations of IEC in hot and humid areas. The newly developed L D C S uses exhaust air as the working air source and solar energy as the heat source for desiccant solution regeneration. This study aims to develop an empirical model for the outlet parameters of the L D C S , propose an optimization strategy for its operating parameters, and assess the potential and energy performance through parameter analysis and multifactor optimization. By conducting sensitivity analysis and optimizing six critical parameters based on a response surface model ( R S M ), the system outlet temperature, relative humidity, and coefficient of performance ( C O P ) are improved as the optimization objectives. The regional capability is demonstrated in three selected hot and humid cities. The results indicate that the L D C S can significantly increase the C O P by 57.3%. Additionally, it can meet the dehumidification demand when operating with 25% of the air extracted in the R I E C during months with high humidity and temperature. This study will facilitate the application of I E C and L D D technologies, guide the design and operation scheme of the system, and promote energy-saving and emission-reducing solutions in hot and humid regions.

Suggested Citation

  • Yanling Zhang & Hao Zhang & Hongxing Yang & Yi Chen & Chun Wah Leung, 2023. "Optimization of the Liquid Desiccant Cooling Systems in Hot and Humid Areas," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(18), pages 1-20, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:18:p:13511-:d:1236425
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Aiguo Zhu & Haider Ali & Muhammad Ishaq & Muhammad Sheraz Junaid & Jawad Raza & Muhammad Amjad, 2022. "Numerical Study of Heat and Mass Transfer for Williamson Nanofluid over Stretching/Shrinking Sheet along with Brownian and Thermophoresis Effects," Energies, MDPI, vol. 15(16), pages 1-21, August.
    2. Kim, Min-Hwi & Park, Jun-Seok & Jeong, Jae-Weon, 2013. "Energy saving potential of liquid desiccant in evaporative-cooling-assisted 100% outdoor air system," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 59(C), pages 726-736.
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