PROPOSAL FOR A NOVEL CHEMICAL HEAT PUMP DRYER

ABSTRACT

A new chemical heat pump (CHP) system for ecofriendly effective utilization of thermal energy in drying is proposed from the viewpoints of energy saving and environmental impact. CHPs can store thermal energy in the form of chemical energy by an endothermic reaction and release it at various temperature levels for heat demands by exo/endothermic reactions. CHPs have potential for heat recovery and dehumidification in the drying process by heat storage and high/law temperature heat release. In this study, we estimate the potential of the CHP application to drying systems for industrial use. Some combined systems of CHPs and dryers are proposed as chemical heat pump dryers (CHPD). The potential for commercialization of CHPDs is discussed.

Key Words and Phrases:

• energy savings
• heat recovery
• chemical heat storage
• exergy
• dehumidification