Optimization of Desiccant Absorption System Using a Genetic Algorithm

Optimization of the open absorption desiccant cooling system has been carried out in the present work. A finite difference method is used to simulate the combined heat and mass transfer processes that occur in the liquid desiccant regenerator which uses calcium chloride (CaCl2) solution as the working desiccant. The source of input heat is assumed to be the total radiation incident on a tilted surface. The system of equations is solved using the Matlab-Simulink platform. The effect of the important parameters, namely the regenerator length, desiccant solution flow rate and concentration, and air flow rates, on the performance of the system is investigated. In order to optimize the system performance, a genetic algorithm technique has been applied. The system coefficient of performance COP has been maximized for different design parameters. It has been found that the maximum values of COP could be obtained for different combinations of regenerator length solution flow rate and air flow rate. Therefore, it is essential to select the design parameters for each ambient condition to maximize the performance of the system.