From The Hindu, June 9, 1975: IIT develops solar air-conditioner - The Hindu

IIT Madras' Solar Air Conditioner

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has developed a solar air-conditioning system using the absorption principle, specifically designed for India's coastal climate. This system, developed by Dr. M.C. Gupta and his team with government support, dehumidifies air using an absorbent chemical solution regenerated by solar heating. The dehumidified air is then cooled evaporatively.

Key Features

• Uses a regenerator powered directly by sunlight, minimizing the need for mechanical components.
• The regenerator is reportedly more efficient than comparable international designs.
• Operates effectively even with low solar irradiation, allowing for morning and evening use and storage for cloudy periods.
• Simple construction using readily available materials (galvanized iron, glass, wood).
• Designed for roof integration to reduce costs.

The system's simplicity and efficiency make it a promising development in sustainable cooling solutions for India's climate.