SBIR-STTR Award

This study will determine the feasibility and effectiveness of the motion and collection of water molecules and droplets when influenced by a strong electric field and corona discharge. An innovative way of developing a high electric field with air moving past the field will be examined and tested. The key parameters will be identified and incorporated in an improved theoretical model. The model will describe electric field and corona behavior, energy consumption, ionic charging processes, kinematics, and state transitions of water molecules and droplets in a strong electric field gradient. The model will account for interaction of these key parameters with electrode configurations, voltage and current waveforms and ions density. Comparison of relative strength of coulombic, dielectrophoretic, and Biot-Savart forces in space-charged moving media under a range of experimental conditions typical for dehumidification processes will be examined. A bench-scale system of a dehumidification apparatus will be demonstrated and its performance and efficacy will be compared to best available practices in the field. Finally, a qualitative relationship between the energy and space requirements for dehumidification and the mass of water collected and removed in different conditions and humidity rates will be formulated. In an environment where space and energy are scarce commodities, separate traditional dehumidification technology is not viable. This results in an over-spec of the air conditioning system to attempt to control the overall humidity. The result is wasted energy and poor humidity control leading to increased corrosion. An energy efficient, space-saving electrostatic dehumidification device solves many significant DoD and private industry concerns.

Kronos Air Technologies has developed corona discharge technology that has demonstrated the ability to move, purify, and dehumidify the air in a silent, energy efficient, low-maintenance and scalable device. The goal of Phase II is to implement and optimize dehumidification via Kronos'''' electrostatic field technology. The work will continue on development of a theoretical model describing the process for dehumidification using electrostatic fields. The resulting technology would successfully combine a humidity control, air cooling, air purification, and air movement device that would save money, space, and energy. Kronos Air Technologies has a wide variety of potential commercial applications. As a result of Phase II research and development, Kronos intends to be in a position to provide the Federal Government and the private sector with numerous applications. The Government market for KronosT technology includes such closed space environments as Govt./Army buildings, military ships, enclosed military vehicles, computer spaces, hospitals, and labs. An energy efficient, space-saving KronosT dehumidification device solves many significant DoD concerns by providing increased energy efficiency and dehumidification effectiveness in a silent, low-maintenance device. The private sector applications for Kronos dehumidification technology are tremendous. To that end, Kronos has created distribution channels with a major international distributor to sell and distribute a Kronos dehumidification device when it becomes availalbe.

Keywords:
dehumidification, electrostatic, corona, air, movement, purification, kronos, technology