Microwave-Enhanced Regeneration of Adsorbents

Abstract

AbstractAn experimental investigation was carried out to determine the regeneration characteristics of adsorbent beds using microwave heating. Tests were performed with water on F-200 activated alumina and on types 4A and 13X zeolite molecular sieves and with methanol on 4A and 13X zeolites. For these systems, microwave heating produced very high rates of regeneration with either gas purge or vacuum purge. Dielectric properties of both the adsorbent and the adsorbate affect the heating response. Temperature profiles in the adsorbent bed show that microwave heating eliminates the mass transfer front characteristic of conventional regeneration. This may have potential implications for improved bed life. The ultimate goal of the program is the recovery of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by regenerating adsorbents with little or no dilution in a stripping medium.