Research Description

Desiccant Efficiency

The purpose of this research is to identify the most efficient desiccant that can adsorb moisture from the air at typical outside temperatures and release the moisture in the form of water vapor when heated. By experiment, the adsorption rates, and how temperature and humidity affect those rates, will be determined. Another University Scholars recipient, Sabrina Parra, is designing a mechanical device that will heat the desiccant with solar energy, capture the water vapor, and cool it down for condensation. For my project, the adsorption rate of desiccants with varying humidity and temperature will be found by experiment. By comparing the different desiccants and the factors affecting adsorption, the best choice for design will be established and tested with the prototype device. The peak amount of water per time produced by experiment at set conditions will affect Sabrina Parra's design. It is our hope that this will lead to a simple environment-friendly way to obtain clea! n drinking water.