Modeling VOCs adsorption onto activated carbon

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Activated carbon adsorption is crucial for pollutant removal but influenced by complex factors.
• Simultaneous adsorption and desorption dynamics are not fully captured by existing models.
• Understanding these processes is key to optimizing adsorption systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a numerical model for predicting the overall adsorption process on activated carbon.
• To incorporate non-linear driving forces and the Langmuir model for enhanced accuracy.
• To determine adsorption/desorption rate constants and activation energies.

Main Methods:

• Developed a numerical model assuming simultaneous adsorption and desorption.
• Integrated a non-linear driving force with the Langmuir adsorption model.
• Validated the model against experimental data for isotherms and breakthrough curves.

Main Results:

• The numerical model successfully predicted adsorption isotherms and breakthrough curves.
• Obtained adsorption and desorption rate constants and activation energies.
• Equilibrium constants derived from the model align with literature values.

Conclusions:

• The developed numerical model offers a robust tool for predicting activated carbon adsorption.
• The model accounts for simultaneous adsorption-desorption, improving predictive capabilities.
• This approach enhances the design and optimization of adsorption processes.