The Impact of Climatic Variations on Thermodynamic Performance of Atmospheric Water Harvesting in Iraq

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of climate fluctuations on the thermodynamic efficiency of AWH systems in Iraq as a country that suffers from water rationing due to its unfavourable climate condition. The climatic conditions of Iraq are high temperature, a low amount of rain, and humidity variability, which creates prospects and constraints for applying AWH technologies. The study first gives the reader a general background of AWH systems which involves the removal of moisture directly from the air by methods such as condensation, fogging and the use of sorbents. These systems are especially helpful in places like Iraq where climate change and the over extraction of water from rivers and aquifers make the conventional sources of water inadequate. In the review, the major emphasis is given to the thermodynamic aspect of the AWH systems, with the climatic environment of Iraq considered. A comprehensive evaluation of the various adsorbent materials that are crucial for the optimization of AWH system is also provided. The paper assesses how change in temperature and humidity affects the moisture collection ability of these materials. Also, the study presents the system design factors that require the understanding of the climate in Iraq to enhance water production and energy consumption. The environmental and socioeconomic consequences of implementing AWH technologies in Iraq are assessed with reference to the possibility of dealing with water shortage challenges in the rural and urban settings. Vulnerabilities of expanding AWH systems are also discussed in the paper, such as material costs, energy, and physical structures. Lastly, it outlines the research agenda for enhancing the AWH technology and its application to the national water resource planning in Iraq to address the water scarcity problem sustainably.