Energy Neutral VOC Oxidation Using a Fluorite-Catalyst/Compact Heat Exchanger

The need to reduce ozone in urban areas has led to increased regulation for the control of the ozone precursors¿namely volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides. However, current control technologies, such as incineration and adsorption on solids, have a number of disadvantages for the wide range of VOC-emitting industries. Catalysts provide an alternative control strategy. Recent work by Tufts and Reaction Engineering International suggests that a promising alternative may be use of a fluorite-type oxide catalyst. These catalysts can be very active at low temperatures and, when used in conjunction with new advances in counter-current heat exchangers, can provide an energy neutral system for oxidizing VOCs. The objectives of this investigation are to: (1) determine what types of VOCs are most effectively oxidized by the catalyst, (2) quantify catalyst performance as a function of temperature, (3) determine the lower limit of the VOC that can be controlled (and measured), and (4) quantify contact times required for a given efficiency. The oxidation of several types of VOCs will be evaluated in a laboratory reactor and preliminary testing of the catalyst/heat exchanger system will be performed.