Coefficients of Heat and Mass Transfer in a Packed Bed Suitable for Solar Regeneration of Aqueous Lithium Chloride Solutions

Abstract

Reconcentration of a lithium chloride solution in an open-cycle absorption chiller can be accomplished by passing solar heated air through a packed column to which the dilute solution is supplied. Following a theoretical study of heat transfer and water vapor transfer rates in the column, experimental measurement of those rates was made. Heat transfer and mass transfer coefficients are correlated with rates of air and liquid flow, and with temperatures of air and liquid supply. Performance data are presented and commercial design and operating requirements are suggested.