SOLVENT RECOVERY SYSTEMS.

Abstract

In the solvent recovery process the solvent-laden air passes through the adsorption unit where the activated carbon adsorbs the solvent molecules. After a definite period of use, the adsorption capacity of the carbon is exhausted. At this time, known as the 'break-point', the solvent concentration in the air leaving the adsorption unit rises. After the break-point has been reached, the solvent can be desorbed and recovered from the carbon by using low pressure steam or in some cases, inert gas. The steam/solvent mixture is then condensed and cooled. The water is removed from the mixture by normal separation techniques. To maintain continuity of process, a battery of adsorption units is generally used.