The factors influencing the performance, i.e., the efficiency and capacity, of open-cycle desiccant cooling systems were investigated. The parameters of interest were the shape of the sorption isotherm, the regeneration temperature, the mass fraction of the desiccant in the dehumidifier matrix, the moisture uptake at saturation (100% relative humidity), the ambient operating conditions, the operational mode (ventilation or recirculation), and the degree of staged regeneration. The influence of these variables on the performance of an open-cycle desiccant cooling system was analysed for four representative locations in the United States.

KEYWORDS: performance, desiccants, dehumidifiers, cooling, USA, efficiency, capacity, isothermal, absorption dehumidifiers.