Optimization of the liquid desiccant cooling systems in hot and humid areas

Abstract

Air-conditioning systems in hot and humid regions account for over 50% of total energy usage. Integrating an indirect evaporative cooling ((Formula presented.)) and a liquid desiccant dehumidifier ((Formula presented.)) as the liquid desiccant cooling system ((Formula presented.)) presents an energy-saving and emission-reducing solution to replace traditional mechanical vapor compression refrigeration ((Formula presented.)) systems. This integration overcomes the regional limitations of IEC in hot and humid areas. The newly developed (Formula presented.) 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 (Formula presented.), 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 ((Formula presented.)), the system outlet temperature, relative humidity, and coefficient of performance ((Formula presented.)) are improved as the optimization objectives. The regional capability is demonstrated in three selected hot and humid cities. The results indicate that the (Formula presented.) can significantly increase the (Formula presented.) by 57.3%. Additionally, it can meet the dehumidification demand when operating with 25% of the air extracted in the (Formula presented.) during months with high humidity and temperature. This study will facilitate the application of (Formula presented.) and (Formula presented.) technologies, guide the design and operation scheme of the system, and promote energy-saving and emission-reducing solutions in hot and humid regions.