A SOLAR-DRIVEN ADSORPTION MACHINE FOR COLD PRODUCTION IN REMOTE AREAS

In this paper the design, the manufacturing and the testing activity of a novel solar-powered ice-maker is presented. The machine uses as working pair the activated carbon (adsorbent) and the methanol (adsorbate). The prototype is able to produce an amount of ice of 5-10 kg per day depending on the weather conditions. The operation of the prototype is based on a day/night intermittent cycle and consists of the following main components: a flat type solar collector, in which the multi-tubular adsorber is integrated, an air-cooled condenser and an evaporator placed inside an insulated box where cold is produced. The early field tests, performed at CNR-ITAE in Messina (similar to 38 degrees latitude N), showed that this machine can daily produce about 5 kg under typical winter time climatic conditions with a solar COP of 0.08. Next activity will be a year round test to be performed in Messina while the future study will be carried out by a solar simulator available at the University of Warwick (UK).