Exploring Adsorption Refrigeration for Integration with Hydrogen Production Systems

Adsorption refrigeration machines (ARMs) offer a sustainable cooling solution by oper-ating with low electrical input and utilizing environmentally friendly refrigerants. Their compatibility with renewable energy sources makes them particularly suitable for inte-gration into clean energy systems, including hydrogen production processes. This study investigates the thermodynamic performance of an ARM through a parametric analysis focused on the influence of adsorption and desorption temperatures on system efficiency. The analysis is based on a dynamic thermodynamic model simulating the adsorption cycle under various temperature scenarios. Key performance indicators, such as the coef-ficient of performance (COP), cooling capacity, and thermal efficiency, are evaluated across a range of operating temperatures. Particular attention is given to the optimization of the desorption temperature, which critically affects energy consumption and the cooling demand required for hydrogen production via electrolysis or thermochemical processes. Results show that optimizing temperature parameters can significantly improve system performance. For instance, increasing the desorption temperature within an optimal range enhances the regeneration phase and maximizes the COP. The study identifies operating conditions that promote high thermal efficiency and effective coupling with hydrogen production cycles. These findings demonstrate the technical feasibility and energetic advantages of integrating adsorption refrigeration into hydrogen production systems. Such coupling not only reduces the total energy input but also supports the development of low-carbon, energy-efficient pathways for green hydrogen generation.