GCMC Simulations in Zeolite MFI and Activated Carbon for Benzene Removal from Exhaust Gaseous Streams

Abstract

ABSTRACT A set of GCMC molecular simulations has been performed over zeolite MFI and disordered, activated carbon structures, to determine adsorption isotherms and thermodynamic characteristics of a gaseous mixture adsorbed into porous structures, activated carbon, all-silica MFI and hydrophilic FAUNaY zeolites. Simulations have been carried out over a multicomponent mixture, in order to mimic a more realistic gaseous emission, when benzene has to be removed. Validation of the model has been obtained by comparison with available experimental data. Different conditions, as temperature and total pressure of the stream have been taken into account. Results give a ranking for the most appropriate process conditions, and for the best materials to be employed for the separation process. Data fitting with the Sips thermodynamic model has also been provided for benzene isotherms. Our procedure is simple and may be adapted to different temperature and pressure conditions, adsorbate or adsorbent characteristics, and gas composition