Performance of vapour compression based atmospheric water generation systems in arid conditions – Experimentations and perspectives in the Gulf region

The scarcity of fresh surface water resources combined with the over-exploitation of groundwater reserves across the Gulf Cooperation Countries (GCC) has increased the dependence on seawater desalination to satisfy drinking water requirements. However, the predominance of high relative humidity and temperatures within this region, offers an unrivalled potential for atmospheric water generation (AWG). Most AWG techniques are currently limited to emergency response or remote locations where conventional water production/distribution strategies are ineffective or prohibitive. This study presents an analysis of various scalable AWG techniques including direct cooling of air using Vapour Compression Refrigeration Systems (VCRS) and Air Conditioner Condensate Recovery (ACCR). Three commercial VCRS-type AWG units were evaluated at the same time during a 4-month field test in summer 2022 in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi, UAE and their performances were correlated to the relative humidity and temperature of the inlet air in both indoor and outdoor conditions. In addition, up to 30.8 L·day⁻¹·TR⁻¹ of AC condensates were collected from a 7.87 m³·s⁻¹ Fresh Air Handling Unit that was installed on the roof of a University building. This study demonstrates the potential of AWG as a promising solution to increase water security across arid countries by offering a complementary option to desalination without brine generation.