Sorption characteristics of a novel polymeric desiccant

Abstract

In this work, we present a new polymeric desiccant named super desiccant polymer (SDP). The sorption capacity and diffusivity of SDP are measured from 30 degrees C to 60 degrees C at relative humidity from 5% to 70% using uptake measurement method. In addition, a small SDP wheel sample is fabricated to confirm durability of dehumidification and regeneration performance. The results show that the sorption capacity of SDP is 2-3 times higher than those of various types of silica gel. The sorption capacity is found to be 128% at relative humidity of 67%. Fick's law is modified and applied to model kinetic behavior of SDP. The apparent diffusivity of SDP ranges from 6.4 x 10(-13) to 5.9 x 10(-11) m(2) s(-1). Furthermore, the SDP wheel sample displays an outstanding durability during 40,000 times sorption and regeneration process. Given these excellent properties, SDP has a great potential in the industrial application as an advanced desiccant material. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd and IIR. All rights reserved.