Application of a compact sorption generator to solar refrigeration: Case study of Dakar (Senegal)

The feasibility of applying a low cost plate heat exchanger solid sorption reactor to solar powered refrigeration is investigated by using a validated reactor model. The proposed system is targeted at ice-making in developing countries for food preservation. The adsorption refrigeration machine modelled employs the active carbon-ammonia working pair in both two-bed and four-bed regenerative systems. Driving heat is provided from standard flat plate and evacuated tube solar collectors. The capital cost of a one-off machine with four regenerative beds which could produce up to 1000 kg of ice per day in Dakar (Senegal) is estimated at (sic)68,000. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.