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This work deals with the study of carbon
dioxide sorption in a column packed with activated carbon. Our main objective
is to help undergraduate senior chemical engineering students understanding
the process of concentration movement in an adsorption column. The basic
theoretical background for treating this problem is provided by Solute
Movement Theory. An experimental set-up was devised in which the outlet
breakthrough curve is monitored using a carbon dioxide infrared detector.
In addition to this, the temperature profile inside the column is recorded
with seven thermocouples, making it possible to follow the movement of
the front along the column.
This system was also simulated using a
theoretical model that considers mass and energy balances. Inter particle
mass transport is described using LDF, linear driving force assumption.
This page complements the article:
Cruz, P., A. Mendes, Fernão D.
Magalhães, “Using in-bed temperature profiles for visualizing the
concentration front movement”, Chem.
Eng. Edu.,
2001, 35(2), 122-127.
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The experimental set-up includes a stainless steel column packed with activated carbon and seven thermocouples placed along it's center. The column can be fed with helium (carrier gas) alone, for regeneration, or with a mixture of helium and carbon dioxide. The flow rates are measured with two independent flow meters. The outlet breakthrough curve is monitored using a carbon dioxide infrared detector (see Fig. 1).
Fig. 1: Experimental set-up
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We recommend reading the included "readme.txt"
file for instructions on using the simulator.
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This is an example of simulation results,
obtained with the operating conditions included in the downloadable file
"Simsorb.xls"
Fig. 2: Carbon dioxide history
for different axial positions
Fig. 3: Temperature history for
different axial positions
Fig. 4: Velocity history for different axial positions
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