Innovative Hygroscopic Material for Humidity Regulation: Diatomaceous Earth Composite Porous Ceramic

Urbanization in hot and humid regions such as southern China has increased the demand for comfortable indoor environments. In order to design a material for efficient passive indoor humidity regulation, this study investigates a composite material that combines the hygroscopic properties of salt and the adsorption capacity of diatomaceous earth (DE). Firstly, we prepared DE and boehmite into moisture-absorbing porous materials. Then, the initial DE-based sample was innovatively doped with SiO2 nanomaterials and loaded with LiCl to enhance the humidity regulation ability of the composite, especially in the adsorption and desorption ability of water vapour. The microstructure and phase composition of the composite samples were analysed, and we observed an increase in porosity, filling performance and capillary condensation upon the introduction of SiO2 nanoparticles. The hygroscopic salt loaded into the pores can absorb more water when exposed to the ambient humidity. This synergic effect can effectively improve the hygroscopic performance of the composite material while maintaining the stability of the physical and chemical properties. The optimized samples showed a moisture absorption rate of 28% in high-humidity environments, meeting moisture buffer value evaluation standards. The study’s findings lay the foundation for the future integration of these materials through advanced manufacturing technologies.