Research Projects

Compressor driven oscillating solid sorption cooling (OSSC) is a new technique for creating low temperatures, suitable for various temperature levels. This proposal aims to develop an alternative to conventional CFC-based cooling systems due to their potential for ozone depletion. The proposed system uses a compressor-driven system, where the pressure swing generated by the compressor is changed to pulsating mode using solenoid valves. This avoids some limitations of solid sorption cooling and allows for continuous cooling without the need for multiple beds. A tabletop model has been fabricated and tested with gaseous nitrogen (adsorbate) being charged/discharged periodically in a column filled with activated carbon (adsorbent), generating cooling continuously. The design, fabrication, and testing of a prototype solid sorption cooler are planned for near room temperature application. The optimum design and operating parameters of a kW capacity prototype will be determined through COMSOL assisted simulation followed by fabrication and performance testing. The constituents used in the process are all natural, and there is no threat to ozone depletion or global warming. Successful execution of the project is expected to deliver a prospective green refrigeration system based on pulsating solid sorption. However, the first prototype may not yield ultimate compactness due to the compressor, and few iterations may be needed for future improvements.