Research progress of sorption materials in rotary desiccant wheel system{fr}Progrès de la recherche sur les matériaux de sorption dans le système de roue de dessiccation rotative

The rotary desiccant wheel has garnered significant attention for its substantial sorption capacity and continuous regeneration mechanism. The performance of the desiccant wheel depends on two key factors: the structural parameters and the sorption material. The sorption material has a more significant impact, as optimizing this component not only enhances the sorption capacity but also lowers the regeneration temperatures, thereby mitigating the high energy consumption associated with regenerating the desiccant wheel. Such optimization further enables the integration of low-grade heat sources into the rotary desiccant wheel system. Therefore, it is essential to modify or develop stable, efficient, low-temperature regeneration desiccant wheel sorption materials. This paper reviews research on sorption materials in desiccant wheels from four perspectives: conventional, composite, nanoporous, and polymeric materials. It summarizes the latest research progress, focusing on the sorption properties, regeneration temperatures, advantages, and limitations of each material type. It concludes by analyzing the current application status and future development trends of these materials in desiccant wheels. Although some advanced materials demonstrate superior performance, practical applications remain limited. Therefore, ideal sorption materials should exhibit not only high sorption capacity but also reusability, stability, manageability, and cost-effectiveness, underscoring the need for continued research into the development of advanced materials.