Researchers proved that, heat powered adsorption refrigeration technology is very effective methods for reutilization of low-grade thermal energy such as industrial waste heat, solar energy, and exhaust gases from engines. But to make it commercially competitive with the well-known vapor compression and absorption refrigeration system, the processes require high rates of heat and mass transfer characteristic between adsorbate and adsorbent as well as externally supplied heat exchanging fluid. This paper reviews various techniques that have been developed and applied to enhance the heat transfer and mass transfer in adsorber beds, and also discuss their effects of the performance on adsorption system. A comprehensive literature review has been conducted and it was concluded that this technology, although attractive, has limitations regarding its heat and mass transfer performance that seem difficult to overcome. Therefore, more researches are required to improve heat and mass transfer performance and sustainability of basic adsorption cycles.
