Characteristics and performance analysis of a natural desiccant prepared from coconut coir

摘要

The objective of this paper is to investigate the use of coconut coir (Cocos nucifera) as a desiccant for moisture adsorption in an engineering process. The physical, thermal, chemical, and adsorptive properties of un-boiled, 0.5 h, and 1 h boiled dried coconut coir were analysed. Coconut coir surface characteristics were examined by scanning electron microscope and pore size distribution and surface area were examined by mercury porosimeters. Chemical composition has been investigated using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Moisture adsorption isotherms of dried coconut coir were determined by the static method. Measurements of heat capacity revealed that boiling the coconut coir decreases the specific heat capacity from 4.33 to 3.83 kJ/kgK at 75 °C. Boiling, however, decreases the adsorption efficacy. The recommended time for boiling should be limited to no more than half an hour. The study confirmed the feasibility of using coconut coir as a desiccant.