Sorption–desorption characteristics of dried cow dung with PVP and clay as composite desiccants: Experimental and exergetic analysis

The present study investigates the sorption and desorption characteristics of a natural composite desiccant based on dried cow dung (DCD). Polyvinyl Pyrrolidone (PVP) and clay are used as binders with DCD. The moisture uptake capacity of composite desiccants is measured with an isotherm experiment under different DCD to binder ratios. Based on their isotherms, composite desiccants are chosen for characteristic study under different humid conditions and validated with available literature data. Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) and Barrett–Joyner–Halenda (BJH) analyses are carried out to understand the physical properties of DCD, DCD+PVP (3:1) and DCD+Clay (3:1). Total heat load reduction, exergy efficiency and power required for these dehumidification systems are calculated for different inlet conditions. Desorption characteristics are tested at 328 K and 6% RH. Results show the maximum moisture uptake capacity of DCD and DCD+PVP as 14.42 and 14.72 g/100 g, respectively. The maximum exergy efficiency of the DCD+PVP dehumidification system is found to be 55%. Desorption time for DCD+PVP desiccant is 17 min, which is 4 and 2 min higher compared to DCD, and DCD+Clay, respectively. With this experimental study, it is concluded that the DCD+PVP has the potential to become an alternative to chemical desiccants based on their exergy efficiency and moisture uptake capacity. •Sorption–desorption characteristics of natural composite desiccants are studied.•Isotherms of various composite desiccants of dried cow dung (DCD) are carried out.•Obtained results are compared with well-known desiccants (silica gel) from literature.•BET and BJH methods are used to study physical characteristics.•Total heat load reduction and exergy efficiency of systems are studied.