Abstract
We revisit the quasi-equilibrium adsorption method as an inexpensive alternative to commercial volumetric apparatus for the measurement of gas adsorption isotherms. This method is based on how the pressure of a manifold containing the sample increases as a function of time when an adsorbing gas is introduced. We show that, under certain conditions, it is not necessary to employ ultra-low flow rates (i.e. below few cm3/h) to obtain reliable adsorption isotherms. Also, we show that by time-differentiating the mass balance equation, it is possible to obtain and measure directly the rates of adsorption. These new insights provide a low-cost and simple approach to the measurements of both adsorption equilibrium and rates.
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Notes
If cryogenic temperatures, low pressure and small tube diameter are employed, the pressure detected in the gauge is higher than the pressure at the sample and thermal transpiration corrections are required. There are several reports on its use, see for example Lowell et al. (2012).
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We appreciate the suggestions provided by Dr. Jacek Jagiełło from Micromeritics Instruments Corp and from Dr. Carlos León y León from Morgan Advanced Materials.
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Vallejos-Burgos, F., Kaneko, K. Measuring adsorption isotherms with a flowmeter and a pressure gauge. Adsorption 25, 809–817 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10450-019-00068-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10450-019-00068-8