Anti-condensation regulation strategy of the novel radiant cooling terminal based on moisture buffering effect

To solve the problem of condensation at the radiant cooling terminal, a novel radiant cooling terminal (NRCT) based on the moisture buffering effect is proposed. The NRCT combines traditional radiant cooling terminals with solid humidity conditioning materials (HCM). On this basis, a coupled anti-condensation regulation strategy between the NRCT and the fresh air system was constructed, which utilizes the moisture buffering effect of the HCM to extend the condensation time, and reserves sufficient time for active intervention of personnel and feedback adjustment of the fresh air system. Then, the indoor air parameters are restored to normal design values as a result of the fresh air system. Meanwhile, the HCM releases the adsorbed water vapor, thereby enabling the completion of the desorption process. Using numerical simulation methods to study each step of the anti-condensation regulation strategy, the results indicate that the NRCT can effectively prevent condensation, and it can ensure that condensation does not occur within 20 min after the window is opened, even under extreme weather conditions. Moreover, the anti-condensation effect improves with the thickness increase of the HCM. However, when ensuring the prevention of condensation while expecting the best moisture adsorption effect, there is an optimal value for the thickness of the HCM. Increasing the fresh air supply volume can enable the HCM to complete the desorption process more quickly. In the final steady-state operation process, the HCM can continue to release moisture, achieving sustainable utilization of the HCM. In actual operation, the operational duration of the fresh air system during the moisture desorption process can be regulated by tracking the relative humidity of the outlet to ensure that the HCM completes the adsorption and desorption cycle. This anti-condensation regulation strategy can provide effective guarantee for the non-condensing operation of radiant cooling terminals.