Dehumidification System Using Adsorbent Hollow Fiber Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dehumidification systems using zeolite sorption processes face challenges in improving adsorption capacity and reducing energy and time required for gas desorption, while the addition of binders during pelletization can decrease adsorption amounts and slow down adsorption and desorption rates.
Innovation Solution
A dehumidification system incorporating an adsorbent hollow fiber module with a tubular body and winding channel, utilizing a high content of zeolite as the adsorbent material and a polymer as a binder, along with a conductive material for joule heating, which enhances adsorption efficiency and reduces energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If zeolite is used as adsorbent material with high content, then adsorption capacity is improved, but energy and time required for gas desorption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The zeolite adsorbent is divided into multiple hollow fiber modules, each containing a specific amount of zeolite. This segmentation allows the total adsorption capacity to be distributed across multiple independent units, enabling partial regeneration and reducing the energy required for desorption at any given time while maintaining overall high adsorption capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic adsorption and desorption cycles by switching between multiple hollow fiber modules. While one module is undergoing desorption (heating), another module continues adsorption, creating a continuous dehumidification process. This periodic operation reduces the instantaneous energy demand compared to regenerating a single large-scale adsorbent bed.
2Stability of the object's composition
If binder is added during pelletization process of zeolite, then pellet structure is formed, but adsorption amount is reduced and adsorption/desorption rate is decelerated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes hollow fiber structures with porous walls containing the zeolite adsorbent. This porous configuration provides extensive internal surface area for moisture adsorption, compensating for the presence of binder materials. The porous structure allows rapid diffusion of water vapor to active zeolite sites, maintaining high adsorption rates despite binder addition for structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs composite hollow fiber construction combining polymer matrix (providing structural stability) with zeolite particles (providing adsorption function). This composite approach optimizes the balance between mechanical strength (from polymer binder) and adsorption performance (from zeolite), allowing the binder to form a stable structure while minimizing its negative impact on adsorption rate through proper material selection and distribution.
3Reliability
If conventional desiccant wheel is used, then dehumidification function is provided, but power consumption and noise are high
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the conventional mechanical desiccant wheel (requiring continuous rotation motors and mechanical drive systems) with stationary hollow fiber adsorption modules. Moisture removal is achieved through passive adsorption physics rather than mechanical rotation, eliminating motor noise and reducing power consumption to only what is needed for periodic heating during regeneration cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow fiber adsorption modules perform self-regeneration through periodic heating, where the accumulated moisture is thermally desorbed and vented. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for continuous external energy input and complex mechanical control systems, significantly reducing both power consumption and operational noise compared to continuously rotating mechanical desiccant wheels.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves faster adsorption rates, longer adsorption times, lower power consumption, and reduced noise compared to conventional desiccant wheels, with the conductive material providing a heating function and safety protection.
Implementation Method 1
The adsorbent hollow fiber module can adsorb the moisture in the air as the air passes through the adsorbent hollow fiber module
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a high content of zeolite as the adsorbent material and a polymer as a binder, along with a conductive material for joule heating
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a dehumidification system including an air directing device and an adsorbent hollow fiber module. The air directing device is used for conveying air. The adsorbent hollow fiber module can adsorb the moisture in the air as the air passes through the adsorbent hollow fiber module. The adsorbent hollow fiber module includes at least one adsorbent hollow fiber. The adsorbent hollow fiber has a tubular body having a first end and a second end and a channel disposed in the tubular body and extending from the first end to the second end.