Using the modified Wheeler-Jonas equation to describe the adsorption of inorganic molecules: Chlorine

Very little has been published on the subject of chlorine gas adsorption on activated carbon. In this work we studied breakthrough of chlorine on canisters filled with both impregnated and non-impregnated activated carbons. The results show that the Wheeler-Jonas equation, normally used for the physisorption of organic vapours, is also applicable to the adsorption of chlorine. Hence it can be used to extrapolate laboratory results to real life situations. It can also help to establish the nature of the chlorine adsorption process. The available data do not permit a conclusive statement on the exact reaction mechanism but it appears that moisture, micropore volume and surface complexes all have an impact on this process. Apparently neither the Cu-Cr complexes, nor the TEDA, of the impregnated carbon have a significant influence on the adsorption behaviour.