Separation by Electrosorption of Organic Compounds in a Flow-Through Porous Electrode: I. Mathematical Model for One-Dimensional Geometry

An engineering model of potential-dependent adsorption of organic compounds in a flow-through porous electrode was derived from fundamental principles. A one-dimensional geometry was considered in which the counterelectrode was located downstream. Potential was controlled at the end of the porous electrode nearest the counterelectrode. The model considered convective mass transfer, ohmie resistance, charging of the electrical double layer, and a potential-dependent adsorption isotherm. Electrosorption can be an efficient cyclic separation process if the full change in adsorption capacity of the adsorbent is utilized in minimum cycle time. For one-dimensional geometry, the model predicted conditions under which efficient operation could be achieved.