Analysis of nonisobaric steps in nonlinear bicomponent pressure swing adsorption systems. Application to air separation

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2000

Authors

Adélio Mendes (Author) FEUP; Carlos Costa (Author) FEUP; Alírio Rodrigues (Author) FEUP

Journal

Title: Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research

Vol. 39 No. 1

Pages: 138-145

ISSN: 0888-5885

Publisher: American Chemical Society

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 19 Citations

ISI Web of Science

Scopus - 19 Citations

COMPENDEX

Scientific classification

CORDIS: Physical sciences > Chemistry > Physical chemistry ; Physical sciences > Chemistry > Physical chemistry > Surface chemistry

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-001-1NE

DOI: 10.1021/ie990355v

Abstract (EN): This paper presents a simulation study using a pressure swing adsorption unit performing an equilibrium-based bicomponent separation, running a traditional Skarstrom cycle. This study is also supported by experimental results obtained for oxygen separation from air in a 5A zeolite. The focus is on the influence on product purity and recovery of the pressure rising rate during pressurization, pressure lowering rate during blowdown, production pressure, and intraparticle viscous flow. A co-current equalization step is also considered. Within the range of tested conditions, it was found that the pressure rising rate during pressurization influences product purity and recovery whereas the pressure lowering rate during blowdown has almost no effect. It was concluded that higher pressurization rates decrease product purity and recovery. Intraparticle viscous flow can enhance or decrease product purity depending on the relationship between diffusional and intraparticle viscous flow contributions and an axial head loss. The production pressure has a complex effect on product purity and recovery, and there is some system-dependent optimal value. Use of a co-current equalization step always enhances product purity and recovery.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 8