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Abstract-A nominal 10.5-kW (3-ton) open-cycle liquid desiccant d ehumidification system has been design_ ed, installed, and successfully operated at the Solar Energy Applications Laboratory, Colorado State Umvers1ty. Packed bed units were used to dry the air in the dehumidifier and to concentrate the desiccant _m the regenerator. Liquid distribution in the regenerator was studied for two systems: a gravity tray d1stnbutor, and a spray nozzle system. Higher capacities ( 40-50% mcrease) and . lower pressure drop ( 30-40% reduction ) for the air flow were observed with the spray system. Coohng capacities of 3.5-14.0 kW ( 1.0-4.0 refngerat10n tons ) were achieved for both the regenerator and dehumidifier. Funct10nal relat1onsh1ps correlatmg.the independent variables to the rate of vaporization in the regenerator and rate of condensation m the dehum1~fier were obtained by statistical analysis of the experimental data. These studies thus proVJ~e data and .correlations useful for design guidance and performance analysis of similar open-cycle hqu1d desiccant coohng systems, particularly for the liquid / vapor contact units.

Reconcentration of a lithium chloride solution in an open-cycle absorption chiller can be accomplished by passing solar heated air through a packed column to which the dilute solution is supplied. Following a theoretical study of heat transfer and water vapor transfer rates in the column, experimental measurement of those rates was made. Heat transfer and mass transfer coefficients are correlated with rates of air and liquid flow, and with temperatures of air and liquid supply. Performance data are presented and commercial design and operating requirements are suggested.

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