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Title: A computer-aided molecular design of fluids that optimize absorption cycle COP

Journal Article · · Journal of Energy Resources Technology
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.2835332· OSTI ID:82964
;  [1];  [2]
  1. L-Cubed Engineering, Norman, OK (United States)
  2. Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States). Dept. of Mechanical Engineering

A method to generate new adsorbents for water in a novel refrigeration cycle was developed. The cycle, known as the phase separation absorption cycle, relies on phase separation, rather than boiling, to generate the refrigerant. After separation, the refrigerant flows to a conventional evaporator, where it evaporates, resulting in a cooling effect. The vapor is absorbed in a conventional absorber. The phase separation process is projected to require less energy than the conventional boiling process, resulting in higher cycle performance. However, suitable fluids for this cycle have never been found. The computer program developed under this work was used for the systematic design of possible adsorbents. Whereas the predictive techniques which serve as kernel of the program can only provide approximate results, they allow fast screening of candidate adsorbents. A model of the cycle was run for each potential absorbent, to establish whether the cycle and absorbent were compatible. A total of over 250,000 molecules were investigated, allowing the identification of a few with the potential to work in conjunction with the cycle.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
82964
Journal Information:
Journal of Energy Resources Technology, Vol. 117, Issue 2; Other Information: PBD: Jun 1995
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English