Water vapor desorption and adsorbent regeneration using nonthermal plasma

Abstract

The dehumidification from a dehumidifier or an air conditioner was employed to achieve a comfortable and desirable indoor environment. Water vapor adsorbed on adsorbent needs to be regenerated when the water vapor exceeds the adsorption capacity. The conventional process for adsorbent regeneration or moisture desorption uses the heat by means of the heater. In the present study, the water vapor desorption from the adsorbent was investigated by using the nonthermal plasma for possible replacement of the electric heater. As a result, the water vapor desorption rate showed superior characteristics in term of energy efficiency, i.e. desorption per unit energy is significantly higher. At the same time, the gradient of water vapor (desorption rate) is significantly higher or quick desorption can be achieved, which leads to more controllable and flexible air conditioning system.