Adsorptionsdrivna

Adsorptionsdrivna refers to technologies and processes in which the primary energy conversion relies on adsorption and desorption cycles between a solid adsorbent and a fluid (the adsorbate). In these cycles, heat input causes the fluid to desorb from the adsorbent; as the fluid re-adsorbs, latent heat is released, enabling cooling, heating, desalination, or energy storage. The approach is characterized by the use of low-grade heat sources and typically fewer moving parts than conventional mechanical systems, which can translate to quiet operation and potentially lower maintenance.

In adsorption cooling and heat pumps, a refrigerant (commonly water) is adsorbed onto a solid such as silica gel or zeolite. Heating the adsorbent releases vapor, which condenses and rejects heat, while the adsorbent re-adsorbs the vapor to complete the cycle. This enables cooling without traditional compressors. Widely studied sorbent–refrigerant pairs include water–silica gel and water–zeolite; other combinations, such as activated carbon–gas, are used for specialized cycles.

Adsorption desalination uses an adsorbent bed to desorb water vapor from saline water when heated. The vapor condenses to yield fresh water, while the adsorbent re-adsorbs vapor from a subsequent evaporator cycle. Configurations may be single-stage or multi-stage and are often designed to exploit low-temperature heat from solar collectors or industrial waste heat.

Beyond cooling and desalination, adsorption-driven concepts are explored for thermal energy storage and heat pumps, where the adsorption cycle stores and releases heat without mechanical work. Ongoing research aims to improve sorbent capacity, cycle speed, and integration with renewable or waste heat sources.