A pilot system for the characterization of hydrophobic membrane contactor modules to be used in air handling processes

Thermal comfort control in electrical vehicles calls for air conditioning systems with a low energetic demand. The paper describes a pilot system developed in the frame of the 'Xeric' EU project in order to study the effect of different operating variables (e.g. desiccant temperature, air velocity) on the performance of hydrophobic membrane based on desiccant air humidification/dehumidification. The overall vapour mass transfer coefficient was estimated in different conditions. By evaluating the membrane mass transfer resistance of the membrane through a modified desiccant inverted cup method, the experimental estimation of the mass transfer resistances in the fluid phases was done. The data obtained through the pilot system are of great interest for the development of air condition systems based on membrane contactors to be used in vehicles cabins.