A complete steady state thermodynamic differential analysis is developed for the
adsorption-based refrigeration systems. The introduced thermodynamic model accurately represents the behaviour of adsorption cooling systems, based on a precise, reasonable, and clear fundamental approach. Based on the energy conservation principle, all components and processes
in the system are analyzed. The dynamics of adsorption is expressed by the Dubinin-Astakhov adsorption equilibrium model. All types of energy interactions are evaluated in order to determine the theoretical performance and the operating parameters of the system. Moreover, the actual
thermodynamic properties of the refrigerant are considered in developing the model. The case studied is an ice maker which uses activated carbon-methanol as the working pair.