Adsorption
A surface phenomenon where atoms, ions, or molecules from a gas, liquid, or dissolved solid adhere to a surface, widely used in separation and purification processes.
Adsorption
Adsorption is a fundamental surface phenomena where substances (adsorbates) accumulate on a surface (adsorbent), driven by physical or chemical interactions. This process differs from absorption, where molecules penetrate into the bulk of a material.
Fundamental Mechanisms
Physical Adsorption (Physisorption)
- Driven by van der Waals forces
- Relatively weak bonds
- reversible processes
- Multiple layers possible
- Minimal activation energy required
Chemical Adsorption (Chemisorption)
- Involves chemical bonding
- Stronger attachment
- Usually monolayer adsorption
- Often requires activation energy
- Generally irreversible
Adsorbent Materials
Common adsorbents include:
Key Parameters
Surface Properties
Operating Conditions
Industrial Applications
Gas Phase
Liquid Phase
Adsorption Isotherms
Mathematical models describing equilibrium:
Process Design
Fixed Bed Systems
Regeneration Methods
Emerging Technologies
Modern developments include:
Environmental Applications
Modeling and Design
Mathematical Approaches
Design Considerations
See Also
Adsorption continues to evolve as a crucial separation technology, with new materials and applications emerging in response to environmental challenges and industrial needs. Its fundamental principles support various separation processes while enabling innovative solutions in environmental remediation and chemical processing.