Numerical Modeling of two dimensional unsteady state desiccant dehumidification channel

In this paper a two-dimensional unsteady state detailed mathematical formulation is developed for the numerical modeling of the behavior of a channel of a hygroscopic compact matrix. Considering proper control volume and some assumptions, governing equation is derived. Initial and boundary equation as well as auxiliary equation are used to close governing equations. Modeling results are validated by experimental data and numeric heat and mass balances. The profiles of temperature and humidity in the desiccant layer and air flow rate are resulted and can be used for optimum design of desiccant channel. Furthermore, effect of axial heat and mass diffusion inside the desiccant are examined as well as number of nodes in the desiccant layer. Results prove that axial heat and mass diffusion can be omitted and number of nodes can be reduced without significant effect in the result precision.