A simplified view of absorption cycles is presented, which leads to a rational development of both practical and Carnot-based limits for double-effect absorption cycle performance. The LiBr/H₂0 cycle is shown to have been developed to a relatively mature state, even though performance of real double-effect cycles is further from the double-effect ideal than real single-effect cycles are from the single-effect idea] (reference) cycle. The mechanism for double-effect staging is developed in a way that provides unique insight into the way irreversibilities impact the staging process. Current projections for cycle and/or application improvements are put into perspective.