Application of high silica zeolite ZSM-5 in a hybrid treatment process based on sequential adsorption and ozonation for VOCs elimination

J Environ Sci (China). 2016 Mar:41:59-68. doi: 10.1016/j.jes.2015.05.021. Epub 2015 Aug 5.

Abstract

In this study, a hydrophobic synthetic zeolite, namely ZSM-5 is chosen as an adsorbent/catalyst for toluene removal. Experimental results showed that toluene adsorption onto ZSM-5 was favourable, following a Langmuir adsorption isotherm model. ZSM-5 zeolite was regenerated using gaseous ozone at low temperature. Adsorbed toluene was oxidised, releasing mainly CO2 and H2O. Traces of oxidation by-products such as acetic acid and acetaldehyde were formed and remained adsorbed after the oxidativate regeneration with ozone. After four successive cycles of adsorption/ozonation, the adsorption efficiency was not affected (92%-99%). These results showed that volatile organic compound (VOC) removal by adsorption onto ZSM-5 zeolite followed by ozone regeneration could be used as a promising hybrid process for the control of VOC emissions in terms of efficiency.

Keywords: Adsorption; Ozone; Toluene; VOCs; Zeolite.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Air Pollution / prevention & control*
  • Catalysis
  • Environmental Pollutants / chemistry*
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Ozone / chemistry
  • Toluene / chemistry*
  • Volatile Organic Compounds / chemistry*
  • Zeolites / chemistry*

Substances

  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Volatile Organic Compounds
  • ZSM-5 zeolite
  • Zeolites
  • Toluene
  • Ozone