Adsorption cooling is a type of thermally-driven refrigeration that features off-grid capabilities and environmentally sustainable materials. While powerful in theory, advancements in operating efficiency are necessary before adsorption cooling systems can compete in the market. This research presents a comprehensive analysis into the feasibility of adsorption cooling systems and an experimental method to investigate system efficiency.

The various material working pairs (refrigerant/adsorbent) were compiled and analyzed in terms of their attributes and design restrictions. Theoretical performance of the working pairs was investigated using an analysis assuming an idealized thermodynamic cycle. The heat transfer kinetics of the system were studied using an experimental apparatus. Silica gel and water were chosen as a feasible working pair and utilized to prove the validity of the experimental method.