Thermal investigation of humidification process using the Poppe method, a semi-analytical method
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The present study models the important parameters affecting the humidification process in a humidifier. The nonlinear differential equations of heat and mass transfers and Merkel number are solved using a semi-analytical method. The influence of dimensionless parameters on the performance of the humidification cycle is shown, and the mass transfer coefficient is estimated. The semi-analytical method is a fast and grid-independent tool for analyzing complex and nonlinear problems. The effect of parameters, including C1, C2, C3, MR and ω0, on Ω, H, and Me are investigated as a function of θ. The results show at a higher θ, heat and mass transfer between water and moist air grows, leading to higher values of Ω, H, and Me. Either increasing C1 and MR or decreasing C2 result in a higher Ω, H, and Me. In addition, reducing C3 decreases the energy required for water evaporation, so that causes an increase in Ω, H, and Me. Increasing ω0 has a negative effect on Ω and H, but it increases Me. An increase in Γ means a higher ability of humidification, causing hd to grow. After MR, C1 has the highest impact on hd, which shows the importance of controlling these parameters for an optimal operation. The highest hd is achieved at MR=0.95, θ=0.1and Γ=3×10-4 kg/m2.s, which is equal to 9.38×10-4 kg/
Authors: Mohammad Behzadi-Sarok, Mohammad Hassan Saidi
Institution: Sharif University of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Mechanical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,520
Funder: Sharif University of Technology
OpenAlex ID: W4413224676