Experimental investigation of a humidifier-dehumidifier desalination system with a hybrid air heater (solar-electric) and vapor absorption refrigeration (VAR) system in the dehumidifier

This study focuses on the experimental investigation of the efficiency of a humidifier-dehumidifier (HDH) desalination process. The system employs a closed-air cycle, utilizing a hybrid (solar-electric) air heater to increase the air temperature before entering the humidifier. Additionally, a Vapor Absorption Refrigeration (VAR) system is employed to decrease the temperature of the water before it enters the dehumidifier. The system is suitable for deployment in regions with high temperatures and humidity levels. Tests have been conducted under prevailing weather conditions. Temperature and relative humidity at various stages of the cycle are measured and recorded using a dedicated sensor. This study examines the effects of different parameters, including air mass flow rate (MFR) and air temperature at the humidifier inlet, on fresh water production (FWP), coefficient of performance (COP), and gained output ratio (GOR). The results section presents the experimental findings, which show that the maximum COP, GOR, and FWP achieved values of 2.1, 4.1, and 200 g/h, respectively. Furthermore, an increase in air MFR corresponds to an increase in both COP and FWP, while GOR values show a decrease. Based on the eco-analysis conducted for this investigation, the cost per liter (CPL) was calculated to be 0.022 $ per kilogram.