CORONA DISCHARGE EFFECTS IN GAS-SOLID ADSORPTION: WATER VAPOR ON SILICA GEL AND FLY ASH

Abstract

Equilibrium characteristics of water vapor adsorption on microporous silica gel and macroporous fly ash are investigated in the presence of corona discharges. The discharge is produced at a fine wire surface in a wire-cylinder electrode geometry, with the adsorbent sample placed in the inter-electrode space. A significant reduction in water vapor adsorption capacity is observed for both negative and positive coronas. Heat effects appear to be negligible. To provide a theoretical understanding of the altered equilibrium, three distinct mechanisms are proposed and evaluated. One mechanism, in particular, is seen to hold much promise.

KEYWORDS:

• Corona discharge
• Adsorption isotherm
• Silica gel
• Fly ash Water vapor

Additional information

Notes on contributors

A.V. SOMESHWAR

To whom correspondence should be addressed.