Optimization of Operating Temperature of a Closed–Air Open–Water Humidification–Dehumidification Desalination System Integrated With a Heat Pump
Online First: 17/06/2026
Corressponding author's email:
vkquoc@hcmut.edu.vnDOI:
https://doi.org/10.54644/jte.2026.2403Keywords:
Heat pump, Desalination, Humidification, Dehumidification, OptimizationAbstract
This study analyzes the performance of a humidification–dehumidification desalination system integrated with a heat pump based on the Pinch method, aiming to evaluate the effect of spray water temperature on the thermodynamic characteristics and energy efficiency of the system. The results show that at a cooling water temperature of 20oC, the optimal operating temperature of the traditional desalination system is 70°C. This range of spray water and cooling water temperatures is well aligned with the efficient operating region of the heat pump. The spray water temperature has a significant impact on system performance. The gained output ratio varies from 7.2 to 8.8 and reaches a maximum of approximately 8.8 at a spray water temperature of about 55oC. In contrast, the specific energy consumption ranges from 77 to 95 W/kg, with a minimum value of around 77 W/kg at the same condition. Economic analysis indicates that the freshwater production cost ranges from 7.7 to 9.5 USD/m3, with the lowest cost achieved at the optimal spray water temperature. The results confirm the existence of an optimal operating point at approximately 55oC, at which the system achieves the highest energy efficiency and the lowest production cost.
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