Performance assessment and optimization of an absorption cooling and desalination system

Reducing energy consumption for cooling and desalination processes is an important issue in hot climates and water-stressed regions. The growing water scarcity problem has increased the relevance of the absorption cycle capability to produce cooling and water, nevertheless its performance has not been thoroughly evaluated. This study presents a parametric analysis of a single-effect (lithium bromide-water) absorption cooling and desalination system in order to determine its operational limits and optimal operating conditions. The thermodynamic modeling of the system was simulated using Aspen Plus® software to evaluate its performance varying mass flow rates, concentration levels, pressure levels and external water supply temperatures (hot, cooling and chilled water). Results indicate that a system designed for 35 kW cooling capacity and activated by low-grade thermal energy (