Design, development and performance evaluation of a 3D-printed desiccant wheel using poly-lactic acid and wood filaments for sustainable HVAC systems

IF 7.1 1区工程技术 Q1 CONSTRUCTION & BUILDING TECHNOLOGY

Building and Environment Pub Date : 2025-03-20 DOI:10.1016/j.buildenv.2025.112889

José A. Martínez-Sánchez , Francisco Comino , Pablo E. Romero , Manuel Ruiz de Adana

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Abstract

This study explores the design, fabrication, and performance evaluation of a 3D-printed desiccant wheel (DW) made from a polylactic acid (PLA) and pine wood composite. The goal is to develop a sustainable alternative for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Material extrusion (MEX) additive manufacturing was used to produce DW prototypes with different hydraulic diameters, optimizing their design based on performance. A full factorial design of experiments was conducted to assess the impact of inlet temperature, humidity ratio, airflow rate, and rotational speed on dehumidification performance.

Experimental tests evaluated moisture removal capacity (MRC), pressure drop (ΔP), and thermal efficiency. Results showed that lower temperatures and higher humidity levels improved moisture adsorption, while airflow rate significantly affected latent efficiency. The highest MRC/Volume reached 294 kg/h·m³, with a maximum latent efficiency of 0.9.

This study introduces a novel approach by integrating MEX with bio-based desiccant materials, filling a research gap in sustainable dehumidification technologies. The findings suggest that biodegradable 3D-printed desiccant wheels could serve as an energy-efficient alternative to conventional silica gel systems, particularly in applications integrating renewable energy sources.

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来源期刊

Building and Environment 工程技术-工程：环境

CiteScore

12.50

自引率

23.00%

发文量

1130

审稿时长

27 days

期刊介绍： Building and Environment, an international journal, is dedicated to publishing original research papers, comprehensive review articles, editorials, and short communications in the fields of building science, urban physics, and human interaction with the indoor and outdoor built environment. The journal emphasizes innovative technologies and knowledge verified through measurement and analysis. It covers environmental performance across various spatial scales, from cities and communities to buildings and systems, fostering collaborative, multi-disciplinary research with broader significance.