443c Ultra-Low Concentration Adsorption Equilibrium for N-Alkanes on Bpl Carbon

Bryan J. Schindler1, M. Douglas LeVan1, and Leonard C. Buettner2. (1) Department of Chemical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, VU Station B #351604, 2301 Vanderbilt Place, Nashville, TN 37235-1604, (2) Edgewood CB Center, U.S. Army, 5183 Black Hawk Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010-5424

Adsorption isotherms for compounds of moderate and low volatility are difficult to measure as the Henry's law region is approached. A novel experimental technique has been developed that can measure ultra-low concentration adsorption equilibrium. This new technique requires pre-equilibration of adsorbable components with adsorbents, and then employs purge-and-trap chromatographic methods to measure the ultra-low equilibration concentrations. Preparation of the samples and the analysis method will be discussed. The results will be compared with adsorption theories.