【Weekly Topic】{December 12, 2011} What are penetration concentration and penetration time?
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This post was last edited by Kongfen Zhulong on 2011-12-14 at 16:55. The Membrane Separation and PSA Discussion Forum is launching a “Weekly Topic” series on the basics of PSA pressure swing adsorption; we invite all forum members to participate actively. Purpose of the activity: To deepen the knowledge already acquired, and to improve and strengthen the basic theoretical knowledge of all participants through answering questions, thereby reinforcing what they already know and helping them recall what they have forgotten. There must be a reward for the participants. Question: What are penetration concentration and penetration time? Understanding the significance of penetration concentration and penetration time?
In the outlet curve of the adsorption bed, as the gas mixture continues to flow in, after a certain period of time (tc), the concentration of impurities in the outlet gas reaches a specific value (Cc), at which point it begins to rise suddenly. The concentration of impurities at this point (C0) is known as the breakthrough concentration, while the corresponding time (tc) is called the breakthrough time. Understanding the significance of the breakthrough concentration and breakthrough time is important for keeping track of the condition of the adsorbent and determining when it is necessary to replace it.
It must not exceed the penetration time; once penetration occurs, it is detrimental to the catalyst, the purity of the product will decline over an extended period, and the regeneration time will be longer. In severe cases, the catalyst must be replaced. The penetration concentration can be considered as the saturation concentration of the adsorbent; reducing the adsorption time helps to protect the catalyst.