Experimental investigation on the adsorption/desorption processes using solid desiccant in an inclined-fluidized bed

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the adsorption and desorption operations in an inclined-fluidized bed using silica gel as the working desiccant. The experimental system involves a circular glass tube containing the particles of silica gel, which is tested at an inclination angle of 45 degrees. The moisture capacity of the bed is measured using a gravimetric technique. Process air at nearly constant ambient parameters (humidity and temperature) and different values of flow rate are used during adsorption. Moisture concentration in the bed is analyzed through visual observation of the color of silica gel particles. Experimental measurements indicate that the regeneration and adsorption rates are highly dependent on the air stream velocity. A satisfactory regeneration rate is confirmed at regeneration temperature as low as 90 degrees C when inclined-fluidized bed is applied. The transient-state moisture transfer rates during adsorption and desorption are presented. Finally, observation of the movement and color of the particles in the bed show regular circulation and homogenous distribution of moisture concentration. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.