What is it about?
Absorption cooling systems can save energy by using heat instead of electricity, but their efficiency is often limited by slow heat and mass transfer inside the system. This study tested a new component called a hydrophobic membrane-based desorber-condenser, which uses a special water-repelling membrane to improve how vapor and liquid interact. We used a water–lithium bromide mixture, commonly found in absorption systems, and measured how well the device separated and condensed vapor under different conditions. The results showed that the membrane device allowed higher heat transfer rates and worked efficiently at low pressures and moderate temperatures, making it possible to improve system performance and reduce size compared to traditional designs.
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Why is it important?
Energy-efficient cooling is increasingly important as global energy demand and environmental concerns grow. This work is one of the first experimental studies to validate a membrane-based desorber-condenser using water–lithium bromide, showing it can significantly boost heat and mass transfer in absorption systems. By increasing efficiency and reducing component size, this technology could make absorption systems more practical, cost-effective, and suitable for small-scale or renewable energy-powered cooling. It offers a promising route to greener thermal energy systems.
Perspectives
This research introduces a novel way to enhance absorption cooling systems using membrane technology. Future work could scale up this approach, integrate it into complete absorption chillers, or combine it with solar or waste heat sources. The results pave the way for more compact, efficient, and sustainable thermal cooling solutions.
Professor Rosenberg J Romero
Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Morelos
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Experimental assessment of a hydrophobic membrane-based desorber/condenser with H2O/LiBr mixture for absorption systems, Experimental Thermal and Fluid Science, November 2017, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/j.expthermflusci.2017.05.024.
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