Volatile organic compounds absorption in packed column: theoretical assessment of water, DEHA and PDMS 50 as absorbents

Abstract A fixed volume packed column was simulated for the absorption at counter-current of four more or less hydrophobic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in water and in two heavy organic solvents (PDMS 50, a silicone oil) and DEHA (Bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate). Reliable values of the mass-transfer coefficients were deduced allowing to calculate the VOCs removal efficiency. Disappointing performances in heavy solvents, lower than 60% for isopropanol and acetone, were computed in a 3 m height column and using mild conditions (atmospheric pressure and a liquid-to-gas mass flow rate ratio around 2). However, toluene removal efficiencies higher than 90% were simulated.