Review of humidity control technologies in buildings

This paper reviews the current research and advances in humidity control for residential and commercial buildings. Desiccant and hygroscopic buffering zones are summarized. System types, performances and challenges are presented to help the reader select the best cooling dehumidification system for his application or project. More emphasis is put on liquid and hybrid systems along with advances in desiccant membranes and energy conservation. The paper concludes that liquid and hybrid desiccant cooling dehumidification systems offer higher flexibility and control for moisture removal, lower heating and cooling requirements for the regenerator and absorber, respectively, compared with the same for solid desiccant systems. Mixtures of multiple liquid desiccants offer better dehumidification results compared with single desiccant solutions. Hygroscopic humidity buffer zones play a significant role in predicting and meeting the comfort levels for building occupants.