Enhancing Dewpoint Indirect Evaporative Cooling with Intermittent Water Spraying and Advanced Materials: A Review

Łukasz Stefaniak (), Agnieszka Grabka, Juliusz Walaszczyk, Krzysztof Rajski, Jan Danielewicz (), Wiktoria Jaskóła, Maja Wochniak and Weronika Żyta
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Łukasz Stefaniak: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Agnieszka Grabka: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Juliusz Walaszczyk: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Krzysztof Rajski: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Jan Danielewicz: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Wiktoria Jaskóła: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Maja Wochniak: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland
Weronika Żyta: Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, 50377 Wrocław, Poland

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 9, 1-24

Abstract: Dewpoint indirect evaporative cooling (DIEC) offers an energy-efficient, eco-friendly alternative to conventional air conditioning by using water and air to lower temperatures. With the rising demand for sustainable cooling solutions—especially in regions facing water scarcity and high energy costs—optimizing these systems for real-world conditions is more important than ever. One major challenge is ensuring that DIEC systems perform well when water is supplied intermittently rather than continuously. In this review, we examine how intermittent water supply affects the cooling performance and overall efficiency of DIEC systems. We discuss recent studies that highlight the importance of key factors such as the properties of heat exchanger materials, design modifications, and control strategies. Our analysis reveals that while innovative materials like hydrophilic membranes and adaptive design features can improve performance, their widespread use is often limited by cost and scalability. We also point out critical research gaps, particularly in applying intermittent water spraying to non-porous heat exchangers. Overall, our findings underscore the need for integrated water management strategies in DIEC design. We advocate a cross-disciplinary approach—bridging fluid dynamics, material science, and environmental engineering—to develop more resilient and sustainable cooling technologies.

Keywords: natural refrigerants; air conditioning; sustainable cooling; energy efficiency (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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