Adsorption

For many organic containments and recalcitrant compounds that aren’t easily removed, adsorbents are often the best line of defense. As the liquid passes through the adsorbent media, which has a high surface area to volume ratio, it adheres to the surface either due to electrostatic forces (physisorption) or due to chemical bonding (chemisorption). As treatment progresses, the concentration of contaminants will build up on the material until such time that the capacity of the material is exhausted and breakthrough occurs.

For this reason, adsorbent beds need to be periodically regenerated either by replacing it with fresh material or regenerating it in-situ by either backwashing, steaming or other proprietary removal mechanisms. Best Environmental has experience working with a range of adsorbents in both liquid and vapor treatment applications.

Although Activated Carbon is often the material of choice due to its relatively low cost and versatility, there are times where a synthetic absorbent is required. These compounds are often engineered to a specific containment. Best Environmental can review and advise as to the exact adsorbents needed, their expected working life and even facilitate periodic change outs and/or offer an in place regenerable system to keep your plant running and in compliance.