Simulated counter-current adsorption separation processes

Abstract

The performance of a simulated counter-current adsorption separation unit has been studied experimentally and theoretically using two simple model systems; the separation of fructose-glucose mixtures as an example of a system in which the equilibrium isotherms for both species are linear and uncoupled and the separation of monoethanolamine-methanol mixtures as an example of a non-linear system. Two approaches to the modelling of such systems have been developed: representing the system as an equivalent counter-current steady state system, and, detailed mathematical simulation considering the system as a series of equilibrium stages.