Transient Analysis and Performance Prediction of a Solid Adsorption Solar Refrigerator

The transient analysis and performance prediction of a solid adsorption solar refrigerator, using activated carbon/methanol adsorbent/adsorbate pair are presented. The mathematical model is based on the thermodynamics of the adsorption process, heat transfer in the collector plate/tube arrangement, and heat and mass transfers within the adsorbent/adsorbate pair. Its numerical model developed from finite element transformation of the resulting equations computes the collector plate and tube temperatures to within 5°C. The condensate yield and coefficient of performance, COP were predicted to within 5% and 9%, respectively. The resulting evaporator water temperature was also predicted to within 4%. Thus the model is considered a useful design tool for the refrigerator to avoid costly experimentation.