Solar Absorption for Cooling

A solar absorption system is one of two commonly used thermally activated cooling systems (TACS). The other is a solar desiccant system. Solar absorption systems use solar heat to separate a mixture of absorbent and refrigerant fluids. Once separated, the refrigerant is condensed and evaporated to create a cooling effect. It is then reabsorbed to repeat the cycle. Types of refrigerants include water, salt, silica gel, lithium bromide and lithium chloride.

Solar absorption systems are typically used for large scale applications. Smaller, homeowner scale systems are hindered by high up-front costs. In addition, absorption systems are not designed to provide all of the building's cooling needs and are usually seen more in terms of assisting conventional systems such as those powered by natural gas.

Relatively high temperatures are needed to work solar absorption cooling systems. Therefore, evacuated tube and concentrating collectors are often used. In addition, high heating needs limit the effective use of these systems in climates which do not receive an exceptional portion of sunlight. Nonetheless solar thermal absorption systems are a young and growing technology. They have soaring potential to reduce energy bills.

Solar Absorption Cooling / Active Thermal Cooling / Thermal Chiller