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Psychrometrics of desiccant AC systems
Traditional vapor compression systems need to overcool outside air to remove humidity. 7AC consulted with Fikst to help develop a single step, liquid desiccant approach that eliminates the need to overcool outside air to remove humidity.

Single alpha prototype panel design
I designed the original panel using off-the-shelf clear polycarbonate twinwall panel. This provided structural integrity, natural liquid flow channels, and smooth sealing/bonding surfaces. Other components were machined as needed.
The twinwall was also used to fabricate headers for distributing and collecting the desiccant evenly as it flowed over the panel (fabric, missing in this photo, covers the finished panel and provided the flowpath for the desiccant).
The twinwall was also used to fabricate headers for distributing and collecting the desiccant evenly as it flowed over the panel (fabric, missing in this photo, covers the finished panel and provided the flowpath for the desiccant).

Test setup schematic
I developed a test system and spec'd/purchased equipment to test the alpha panel. Flow, temperature, and RH measurements were acquired by some handheld equipment as well as a Measurement Computing DAQ.

Test setup build
I built the original test setup in the office kitchen - better to make a mess on the linoleum rather than the carpets, and there was ready access to water.

Full test setup
Ready for its maiden voyage.

Proof of concept
Despite the rudimentary test setup, the graph shows outlet humidity reduction relative to inlet humidity when salt solution began flowing through the panel.

Alpha panel stack
Following the initial proof of concept, several more panels were fabricated and became part of a larger test at 7AC's facility.
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