A new type of solid desiccant air-conditioning technology based on desiccant coated heat exchanger overcomes the shortcoming of rotary desiccant air-conditioning systems

such as nonisothermal dehumidification. It can make full use of a large quantity of industrial waste heat that is slightly higher than environmental temperature (30°C–60°C)

and has great energy-saving potential. Focusing on the research subject of this novel solid desiccant air-conditioning technology

this studysummarized some important advances in recent years from three aspects

i.e.

desiccant materials

heat and mass transfer process

and solid desiccant air-conditioning systems. Related scientific problems and challenges were discussed. The development of desiccant that possesses high adsorption quantity

good regeneration ability at approximately 40°C

and noncorrosive property is the premise to improving the technology. Investigation on mechanism of heat and mass transfer between air and different types of desiccant is the key to the technology. Finally

potential future research directions are pointed out based on the development trend of refrigeration

air conditioning

and material science. In this way

the application of this novel solid desiccant air-conditioning technology in the fields of industrial waste heat utilization

environmental humidity treatment

fresh air handling unit

and air conditioning can be anticipated and promoted.