Adsorbent Performance Tests: Capacity and Breakthrough Volume

LCS Laboratory Inc. conducts analytical testing to characterize the performance of adsorbents used in air‑cleaning and contaminant‑control systems. Our methods quantify parameters such as adsorption capacity, breakthrough air volume, and the influence of residence time, humidity, and temperature. These measurements support industrial hygiene professionals, manufacturers, and system designers in understanding how adsorbent materials behave under defined conditions.

Purpose of Adsorbent Testing

The goal of our testing program is to provide an independent, data‑driven assessment of adsorbent efficiency and reliability. The service is suitable for materials that rely on:

  • Physical adsorption
  • Chemical adsorption
  • Catalytic oxidation

The results help users verify performance claims, evaluate material suitability for specific applications, and understand how operating conditions affect contaminant removal.

Technical Description of the Testing Process

All evaluations are performed using packed‑column setups configured for the specific adsorbent and target compound. The general procedure includes:

  1. Air Preparation
    Clean air is conditioned to the required temperature and humidity. Target gases or solvents are introduced at controlled concentrations.
  2. Exposure to Adsorbent
    The prepared air stream is passed through the adsorbent bed at a defined flow rate, establishing a known residence time.
  3. Analytical Measurement
    Concentrations of the target compound are measured upstream and downstream of the adsorbent to determine removal efficiency.

Measured Parameters

  • System Setup and Validation
    Verification that the test apparatus meets the required specifications for flow, temperature, humidity, and analytical accuracy.
  • Residence Time Effects
    Evaluation of how air velocity and contact time influence adsorption behaviour.
  • Adsorbent Capacity
    Quantification of the mass of contaminant retained per kilogram of adsorbent.
  • Breakthrough Volume
    Determination of the air volume processed before the contaminant appears at the outlet, expressed in litres per kilogram.
  • Humidity Influence
    Assessment of how moisture content affects adsorption efficiency and competitive adsorption.
  • Temperature Influence
    Measurement of adsorption performance across a range of temperatures to identify thermal sensitivity.

Contact Information

LCS Laboratory Inc., located in Canada, provides analytical support for industrial and environmental applications. For project discussions or to request additional testing options, you are welcome to contact our laboratory. We can assist with material characterization, method development, and related analytical needs. ©

 

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