Devices and methods for using photons for drying, dehumidifying, fluid processing, dehydrating, and evaporating applications

Abstract

Devices and methods are disclosed for enhancing drying, dehumidifying, cooling, dehydrating, and evaporating processes by harnessing direct, non-thermal photon-induced removal of liquid molecules from a surface. Each apparatus integrates a configurable photon-emitting module (LED, laser, or array) that delivers predominantly TM-polarized light in the visible band (e.g., 495 nm-570 nm) at an incidence configured to approximate the Brewster angle, such as within ±5° of the Brewster angle. Placement of these light sources, together with light-permeable or patterned surfaces, maximizes the normal electric-field component at the interface and enlarges the illuminated area, thereby enhancing cluster ejection and vapor formation while minimizing bulk heating. Representative embodiments include a regenerating desiccator, clothes dryer, solvent extractor, indirect and direct evaporative coolers, food dehydrator, and a valveless microfluidic pump. Integrated control units modulate wavelength, pulse width, incidence geometry, airflow, and ancillary actuators in real time to match load and environmental conditions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.