Dynamic Evaluation of Desiccant Dehumidification Evaporative Cooling Options for Greenhouse Air-Conditioning Application in Multan (Pakistan)

This study provides insights into the feasibility of a desiccant dehumidification-based Maisotsenko cycle evaporative cooling (M-DAC) system for greenhouse air-conditioning application. Conventional techniques include direct cooling, refrigeration systems, and passive/active ventilation. which are commonly used in Pakistan; however, they either not feasible due to their energy cost, or cannot efficiently provide an optimum microclimate depending on regions, growing seasons, crop being cultivated. The M-DAC was therefore proposed evaluated as alternative solution air conditioning achieve levels vapor pressure deficit (VPD) production. objective this investigate thermodynamic performance from viewpoints temperature gradient, relative humidity level, VPD, dehumidification gradient. Results showed that standalone (DAC) created maximum gradient (i.e., 16.8 g/kg) 8.4 °C) at 24.3 g/kg 38.6 °C ambient conditions, respectively. DAC coupled with heat exchanger (DAC+HX) nearly equal is optimal range conditions. Analysis i.e., 21.9 39.2 condition, can be achieved, considered most crops. were validated two models (OptDeg Cft) by taking account optimality VPD different growth stages tomato plants. suggests method efficient under climate conditions Multan (Pakistan).