Abstract: The present invention provides compact adsorption systems that are capable of rapid temperature swings and rapid cycling. Novel methods of thermal swing adsorption and thermally-enhanced pressure swing adsorption are also described. In some aspects of the invention, a gas is passed through the adsorbent thus allowing heat exchangers to be very close to all portions of the adsorbent and utilize less space. In another aspect, the adsorption media is selectively heated, thus reducing energy costs. Methods and systems for gas adsorption/desorption having improved energy efficiency with capability of short cycle times are also described. Advantages of the invention include the ability to use (typically) 30-100 times less adsorbent compared to conventional systems.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for cleaning ambient air of a vehicular adsorption unit (8). The vehicle includes a combustion engine (1) and a passenger ventilation system (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11). Adsorption takes place whether the engine (1) is running or not. During adsorption, a fan (11) forces ambient air from an inlet (6) to the ventilation system in a first direction, through an adsorption unit (8), and out of an outlet (10). To desorb when the engine is running, air is supplied to a heater (13). Heated air is passes through the adsorption unit (8) to release pollutants and regenerate the unit. Pollutant containing air passes through a second heater (4, 16) and then through the first heater (13) to heat the ambient air. Finally, polluted air is drawn from the heat exchanger (13) to an intake conduit (3) of the engine (1).

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for removing trace contaminants from a gas stream or flue gas. In one embodiment, the present invention an apparatus for removing a trace contaminant from a gas stream, comprising a gas duct configured to receive a gas stream comprising a trace contaminant; a plurality of substrates disposed within the gas duct; a trace contaminant sorbent disposed on at least a portion of each of the substrates; an isolation device for separating the portion of each of the substrates from the gas stream; and a regenerator for regenerating the trace contaminant sorbent. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for removing a trace contaminant from a gas stream.

Abstract: A system for recovering water from the atmosphere includes water sorbent assembly composed of a water adsorbent material and a heat exchanger. The water adsorbent material traps water present within the air drawn through the sorbent assembly. Once the sorbent assembly is fully saturated, exhaust gases generated from a power plant are routed through a heat exchanger in thermal contact with the water adsorbent material to remove water within the sorbent assembly into a condenser, and from the condenser to a water storage container.

Abstract: An onboard hydrogen storage unit with heat transfer system for a hydrogen powered vehicle. The system includes a hydrogen storage vessel containing a hydrogen storage alloy configured to receive a stream of hydrogen and provide hydrogen for use in powering a vehicle. During refueling a cooling/heating loop is used to remove the heat of hydride formation from the hydrogen storage alloy and during operation of the vehicle the heating/cooling loop is used to supply heat to the hydrogen storage alloy to aid in hydrogen desorption.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for separating hydrogen. In preferred embodiments, the apparatus and methods utilize microchannel devices with small distances for heat and mass transfer to achieve rapid cycle times and surprisingly large volumes of hydrogen separated in short times using relatively compact hardware.

Abstract: Inorganic, porous particles filter a substance or substances from a flow of fluid such as a gas. The particles can be arranged into a bed to filter a substance (filtrate substance) from a fluid. The filtrate substance can collect on or within the pores of the inorganic particles. Collection of the filtrate substance within the pores of the particles rather than within the interstices of the bed enhances the filtering capacity and does not impede the flow of fluid through the bed of particles. Furthermore, the inorganic particles are re-usable, in that they can be subjected to harsh filtrate-separation techniques, e.g., heat treatment, solvent extraction, detergent washing, and centrifugal separation, yet retain their desired properties.

Abstract: A gas recovery system for improving the efficiency of abatement and/or implementing reclamation and reuse of unused feed materials in effluent of a semiconductor manufacturing facility, especially in instances in which substantial portions of feed material are unused. The effluent is treated to reversibly capture the unused feed material, e.g., at a capture locus such as a physical adsorbent, cold finger, cryotrap, heat exchanger/condenser, membrane separation unit, filter, etc., and the captured unused feed material then is released from the capture locus and processed for such abatement and/or reclamation and reuse.

Abstract: A circular rotating body having a plurality of fan-shaped blocks is disposed inside a casing and driven to rotate. A gas absorption/releasing material in the blocks absorbs/releases a specific gas component from a gas mixture depending on temperature. The rotating body has a hollow static central portion which is divided to form two temperature adjusting fluid paths through which temperature adjusting fluids having different temperatures pass. First and second independent gas flow paths are defined by the casing. A gas mixture containing the gaseous component flows along the first gas flow path through blocks which are heated to a first temperature at which absorption takes place. The blocks are then rotated to a position wherein they are heated to a higher second temperature and release the gaseous component which is exhausted via the second gas flow path. Blocks sequentially enter positions which separate the two different zones.

Abstract: A fume-treating device and fume ducting system for cooker hoods is disclosed. The top section of the bottom fume passage is mounted with a top fume passage and the side of the bottom fume passage is at least a bottom fume-suction inlet, which is a detachable structure. The top section of the top fume passage corresponding to the top section of a stove is provided with a top fume suction inlet. The apparatus is suitable for use in a site where large amount of fume is discharged. The bottom fume outlet corresponding to the inner side of the fume passage is provided with a fume filter. The rising fume passes through an active carbon filter before it is discharged to the environment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a gas purification system with improved efficiency, simpler construction, cost reductions, form factor improvements, and increased durability. The present invention provides cost and form factor improvements through fewer components overall and through utilizing multiple integrated components. Prior art gas purification systems are more bulky and complicated. The present invention achieves increased thermal efficiency through utilization of a regenerative heat exchanger to recapture a portion of the heat energy transferred to the gas during the purification process. Prior art purifiers lacked a regenerative heat exchanger. The present invention integrates the two components into one integrated heater and purification vessel assembly. The present invention integrates the two discrete components into one integrated hydrogen sorption and particle filter assembly. The integrated hydrogen sorption and particle filter assembly is also capable of operating at higher temperatures.

Abstract: The present invention provides compact adsorption systems that are capable of rapid temperature swings and rapid cycling. Novel methods of thermal swing adsorption and thermally-enhanced pressure swing adsorption are also described. In some aspects of the invention, a gas is passed through the adsorbent thus allowing heat exchangers to be very close to all portions of the adsorbent and utilize less space. In another aspect, the adsorption media is selectively heated, thus reducing energy costs. Methods and systems for gas adsorption/desorption having improved energy efficiency with capability of short cycle times are also described. Advantages of the invention include the ability to use (typically) 30-100 times less adsorbent compared to conventional systems.

Abstract: A germane storage and dispensing system, in which germane gas is sorptively retained on an activated carbon sorbent medium in a vessel containing adsorbed and free germane gas. The activated carbon sorbent medium is deflagration-resistant in relation to the germane gas adsorbed thereon, i.e., under deflagration conditions of 65° C. and 650 torr, under which free germane gas undergoes deflagration, the activated carbon sorbent medium does not sustain deflagration of the adsorbed germane gas or thermally desorb the germane gas so that it undergoes subsequent deflagration. The deflagration-resistance of the activated carbon sorbent medium is promoted by pre-treatment of the sorbent material to remove extraneous sorbables therefrom and by maintaining the fill level of the sorbent medium in the gas storage and dispensing vessel at a substantial value, e.g., of at least 30%.

Abstract: There is disclosed a carbon dioxide gas absorbent comprising lithium silicate, 0.5 mol % to 4.9 mol % of alkali carbonate per mole of the lithium silicate, and at least one element selected from the group consisting of aluminum, magnesium, calcium, iron, titanium and carbon.

Abstract: An air demoisturizer for an oil expansion vessel of an electrical power unit like an oil-filled transformer, tap changer or choke, has a heating element in the body of absorbent and utilizes a heat-regeneratable absorbent which is cut off by a moisture detector from the oil expansion vessel when the absorbent is saturated and is thermally regenerated. The demoisturizing column is provided in line with an oil receiver through which the dry air is passed before reaching the oil expansion vessel.

Abstract: Heat transfer management/compartmentalization system for a metal hydride hydrogen storage containment unit. The hydrogen storage alloy is preferably divided into compartments having a honeycomb configuration. Heat exchanger tubing is placed through the compartments to promote heat transfer between the hydrogen storage alloy and the exterior environment.

Abstract: Heat transfer management/compartmentalization system for a metal hydride hydrogen storage containment unit. The hydrogen storage alloy is preferably divided into compartments having a honeycomb configuration. Heat exchanger tubing is placed through the compartments to promote heat transfer between the hydrogen storage alloy and the exterior environment.

Abstract: A regenerable adsorber for removing VOCs from gas streams consists of a porous monolithic carbon which can be regenerated by heating by passing an electric current through it.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for removing trace contaminants from a gas stream or flue gas. In one embodiment, the present invention an apparatus for removing a trace contaminant from a gas stream, comprising a gas duct configured to receive a gas stream comprising a trace contaminant; a plurality of substrates disposed within the gas duct; a trace contaminant sorbent disposed on at least a portion of each of the substrates; an isolation device for separating the portion of each of the substrates from the gas stream; and a regenerator for regenerating the trace contaminant sorbent. In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for removing a trace contaminant from a gas stream.

Abstract: A fuel vapor handling apparatus supplies a purging air to a canister by using a purge pump and purges fuel desorbed from the canister into an intake pipe. A controller intermittently operates the purge so that the canister internal temperature recovers from a reduced level caused by the latent heat of vaporization of fuel during an operating period of the purge pump. Therefore, desorption of fuel from the canister during an operating period is facilitated. Since the actual operating time of the purge pump is reduced, the life of a motor that is a power unit of the purge pump becomes longer.

Abstract: An onboard hydrogen storage unit with heat transfer system for a hydrogen powered vehicle. The system includes a hydrogen storage vessel containing a hydrogen storage alloy configured to receive a stream of hydrogen and provide hydrogen for use in powering a vehicle. During refueling a cooling/heating loop is used to remove the heat of hydride formation from the hydrogen storage alloy and during operation of the vehicle the heating/cooling loop is used to supply heat to the hydrogen storage alloy to aid in hydrogen desorption.

Abstract: A fuel adsorption layer formed in a canister is partitioned into an upper adsorption layer and a lower adsorption layer by a partition plate in which a heater is embedded. The relation between a heating value of the heater and thickness X of the upper and lower adsorption layers is set so that the temperature of a part closest to the heater heating face of the fuel adsorption layer is lower than a fire point of the fuel, and the temperature of a part farthest from the heater heating face is higher than the boiling point of the fuel. With the configuration, by heating the fuel adsorption layer by the heater, the desorption performance of activated carbon is improved, and almost all of the fuel vapors adsorbed can be desorbed.

Abstract: A device is presented which automatically controls the interaction of a medium with an external environment, the temperature of which varies or remains constant. In addition to the medium, the device includes a mechanism for providing constant effectiveness of the medium in the external environment, and an automatic drive mechanism which drives the mechanism for providing constant effectiveness of the medium in the external environment. Advantageously, the device includes a receptacle for the medium, and the receptacle includes a housing incorporating the mechanism for providing constant effectiveness of the medium in the external environment, which is beneficially a movable vent or an expandable vent. The automatic drive mechanism is advantageously a temperature-responsive member or a temperature-responsive fluid movement device.

Abstract: A treatment system for waste gas containing VOCs is composed of a zeolite revolver (10), an incinerator (20) and a network of pipes, valves and filters. The zeolite revolver (10) consists of an adsorption zone (11), a purge zone (12), and a desorption zone (13) to remove VOCs from untreated waste gas in the adsorption zone (11) and then separate the VOCs from the saturated zeolite in the desorption zone (13). The zeolite is cooled down in the purge zone (12) so it can be used again. The separated VOCs are piped into the incinerator (20) to be used as fuel. Whereby, the treatment system for waste gas containing VOCs operates efficiently and economically.

Abstract: Desiccants employed in dehumidifying moisturized air present within a water-damaged building are themselves dehumidified to liberate collected moisture through the use of ambient air drawn over and about a heat exchanger fired by diesel fuel.

Abstract: Heat transfer management/compartmentalization system for a metal hydride hydrogen storage containment unit. The hydrogen storage alloy is preferably divided into compartments having a honeycomb configuration. Mass transfer hydrogen diffusion channels formed after repeated hydrogen absorption/desorption located in the compartments aid in transfer of hydrogen throughout the hydrogen storage containment unit. Heat exchanger tubing is placed through the compartments to promote heat transfer between the hydrogen storage alloy and the exterior environment.

Abstract: Heat transfer management/compartmentalization system for a metal hydride hydrogen storage containment unit. The hydrogen storage alloy is preferably divided into compartments having a honeycomb configuration. Heat exchanger tubing is placed through the compartments to promote heat transfer between the hydrogen storage alloy and the exterior environment.

Abstract: Heat transfer management/compartmentalization system for a metal hydride hydrogen storage containment unit. The hydrogen storage alloy is preferably divided into compartments having a honeycomb configuration. Heat exchanger tubing is placed through the compartments to promote heat transfer between the hydrogen storage alloy and the exterior environment.

Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a high performance metal hydride tank apparatus, which is capable of discharging the hydrogen gas stored in the metal hydride in the tank from throughout the metal hydride efficiently and rapidly. In the process of the hydrogen gas discharge, the metal hydride contained near the inner circumferential surface of the tank absorbs the heats by the temperature raised tank and starts discharging the hydrogen gas. The discharged hydrogen gas absorbs the heat from the inner circumferential wall efficiently, flowing along the inner circumferential wall rapidly guided by the cylinder-like baffle. Further, the discharged hydrogen gas flows through the hydrogen gas flow channel, which is formed into sections by the cylinder-like baffle in the tank, and travels throughout the metal hydride, thus heating up the metal hydride rapidly and discharging the hydrogen gas efficiently from throughout the alloy.

Abstract: A robust, relatively simple air quality control system that can control the air quality in buildings during both the heating and cooling seasons. In one illustrative embodiment, a first air stream is directed through an air treatment module and back into the inside space. A desiccant in the air treatment module adsorbs water, volatile organic compounds and/or particulate material from the first air stream. A second air stream is then directed through the air treatment module to a location outside of the inside space. The second air stream is preferably heated relative to the first air stream so that at least a portion of the adsorbed water, volatile organic compounds and/or particulate material are desorbed from the desiccant into the second air stream. The second air stream carries the desorbed water, volatile organic compounds and/or particulate material to a location outside the inside space.

Abstract: A hydrogen storage and release apparatus is provided with a heat exchanging portion provided with hydrogen storage alloy containers, a heat exchanger body in which the heat exchanging portion is received so that a heat gas or coolant is introduced and discharged, and a hydrogen-travelling passage connected to the containers so that hydrogen can move to the containers. The heat exchanging portion is provided so that the heat exchanging efficiency on the heat gas discharge side of the heat exchanging portion is made higher than that on the heat gas introduction side thereof.

Abstract: An air demoisturizer for an oil expansion vessel of an electrical power unit like an oil-filled transformer, tap changer or choke, has a heating element in the body of absorbent and utilizes a heat-regeneratable absorbent which is cut off by a moisture detector from the oil expansion vessel when the absorbent is saturated and is thermally regenerated. The demoisturizing column is provided in line with an oil receiver through which the dry air is passed before reaching the oil expansion vessel.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for purifying a contaminated fluid stream, for example an air stream contaminated with volatile organic compounds. A sorption media is directed between narrowly spaced plates which control the depth of sorbant flow. In an adsorber the plates are porous to allow the contaminated air to pass into an adsorption chamber where the media removes the contaminates from the fluid stream. In a desorber the plates may be transmissive or reflective of microwave energy and porous to a purging gas in a desorption chamber where the media releases the contaminates to refresh the media. An inclined plane or conical surface is contemplated for a desorber which can be coupled to an adsorber in a closed loop system.

Abstract: There is disclosed a carbon dioxide gas absorbent comprising lithium silicate, 0.5 mol % to 4.9 mol % of alkali carbonate per mole of the lithium silicate, and at least one element selected from the group consisting of aluminum, magnesium, calcium, iron, titanium and carbon.

Abstract: A chemical preconcentrator with integral thermal flow sensor can be used to accurately measure fluid flow rate in a microanalytical system. The thermal flow sensor can be operated in either constant temperature or constant power mode and variants thereof. The chemical preconcentrator with integral thermal flow sensor can be fabricated with the same MEMS technology as the rest of the microanlaytical system. Because of its low heat capacity, low-loss, and small size, the chemical preconcentrator with integral thermal flow sensor is fast and efficient enough to be used in battery-powered, portable microanalytical systems.

Abstract: A rotor includes a high-temperature section and a low-temperature section on its circumference. It is possible to absorb and separate carbon dioxide gas in an effluent or exhaust gas simply by rotating the rotor. Therefore, it is possible to obtain a reliable absorbing/separating system. The system can be remarkably simplified, the regenerating cost thereof can be considerably reduced, and the maintenance thereof is easy. A fixed type of system has similar advantages. Lithium zirconate, an alkali metal oxide, and/or an alkali earth metal oxide is used as an absorbing/separating agent. Such an absorbing/separating agent is chemically and mechanically stable, and can absorb and release carbon dioxide gas stably and reversibly.

Abstract: Heat exchangers, hydrogen gas compressors, hydrogen gas storage devices, hydrogen gas purifiers and metal hydride air conditioners utilizing a flow of a hydrogen gas stream which is absorbed and desorbed by a metal hydride causes disproportionation and “poisoning” of the metal hydrides by introduction of impurities such as water vapor, oxygen and carbon monoxide. Use of a noble metal in powder form, when introduced in the metal hydride particles has been found to act as a catalyst and to delay absorption of the impurities in the metal hydride, and further permits the more efficient and longer use of such devices by inhibiting the undesirable disproportionation and poisoning. In another embodiment, a vent is provided in the initial stage of a hydrogen compressor to vent out the impurities before these result in decreasing efficiency of the devices due to disproportionation, poisoning and increased vapor pressure.

Abstract: A system for storage and dispensing of a sorbate fluid, in which a sorbate fluid is sorptively retained on a sorbent medium and desorption of sorbate fluid from the sorbent medium is facilitated by inputting energy to the sorbent medium including one or more of the following energy input modes: (a) thermal energy input including inductive heating of the sorbent medium, resistive heating of the sorbent medium and/or chemical reaction heating of the sorbent medium; (b) photonic energy input to the sorbent medium; (c) particle bombardment of the sorbent medium; (d) mechanical energy input to the sorbent medium; and (e) application of a chemical potential differential to the sorbate fluid on the sorbent medium.

Abstract: A venting device that reduces the moisture of an enclosure containing a heat source and prevents the entrance of water or other liquids and contamination from entering the enclosure. The moisture reducing device comprises a drying agent or desiccant which is adjacent to said heat source (such as an automotive headlamp bulb or thermally cycling device), an air-impermeable, water-vapor permeable layer, a vent that allows bulk flow of air during thermal cycling of the heat source and a internal diffusion tube or channel that limits the entrance of moisture vapor from the external atmosphere to the drying agent or desiccant. The air-impermeable, water vapor permeable layer allows for continuous diffusion of water vapor, reducing the moisture in the enclosure when the heat source is de-energized. The location of the device to the heat source regenerates the drying agent in the device when the heat source is energized.

Abstract: A fuel vapor handling apparatus supplies a purging air to a canister by using a purge pump and purges fuel desorbed from the canister into an intake pipe. A controller intermittently operates the purge so that the canister internal temperature recovers from a reduced level caused by the latent heat of vaporization of fuel during an operating period of the purge pump. Therefore, desorption of fuel from the canister during an operating period is facilitated. Since the actual operating time of the purge pump is reduced, the life of a motor that is a power unit of the purge pump becomes longer.

Abstract: A method for regenerating a loaded adsorber includes heating a regenerating gas flow by a hot thermal oil flow and directing the heated regenerating gas flow through the loaded adsorber.

Abstract: A hydrogen storage unit is provided with a hydrogen storage container containing a hydrogen absorption material, and a filter portion for eliminating impurities contained in stored hydrogen gas. Thereby, the impurities are eliminated from the stored hydrogen gas in the hydrogen storage container, and the hydrogen absorption material is prevented from being poisoned by the impurities. The filter portion can be provided either inside or outside the hydrogen storage container. An adsorbent for adsorbing the impurities can be used in the filter portion. The filter portion is provided with a heating means for enhancing the elimination of the impurities adsorbed in the filter portion, and can be recovered during operation.

Abstract: A modular adsorption plant comprises one or more transportable cargo containers which hold the various adsorbent beds, pumping apparatus and so on which comprise the plant. The containers are easily transportable, and may be rapidly assembled in modular fashion to produce a large capacity plant.

Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a high performance metal hydride tank apparatus, which is capable of discharging the hydrogen gas stored in the metal hydride in the tank from throughout the metal hydride efficiently and rapidly. In the process of the hydrogen gas discharge, the metal hydride contained near the inner circumferential surface of the tank absorbs the heats by the temperature raised tank and starts discharging the hydrogen gas. The discharged hydrogen gas absorbs the heat from the inner circumferential wall efficiently, flowing along the inner circumferential wall rapidly guided by the cylinder-like baffle. Further, the discharged hydrogen gas flows through the hydrogen gas flow channel, which is formed into sections by the cylinder-like baffle in the tank, and travels throughout the metal hydride, thus heating up the metal hydride rapidly and discharging the hydrogen gas efficiently from throughout the alloy.

Abstract: An adsorption/desorption unit includes a hollow enclosure containing one or more elongate hollow elements of activated carbon fiber cloth (ACFC) of appropriate length to cross sectional area to provide suitable electrical resistance for heating. The elements conduct electrical current to heat to a temperature that permits selective adsorption of a gas stream constituent and subsequent desorption to recover sorbate. An enclosure houses the ACFC elements and is arranged to direct gas stream flow through the elements and into and out of the enclosure via gas ports. The ability to heat the elements to a desired temperature by electrical current flow allows for straightforward implementation of selective adsorption. After an adsorption step, altering the temperature of the element or elements enables desorption.

Abstract: A hydrogen storage and release apparatus is provided with a heat exchanging portion provided with hydrogen storage alloy containers, a heat exchanger body in which the heat exchanging portion is received so that a heat gas or coolant is introduced and discharged, and a hydrogen-travelling passage connected to the containers so that hydrogen can move to the containers. The heat exchanging portion is provided so that the heat exchanging efficiency on the heat gas discharge side of the heat exchanging portion is made higher than that on the heat gas introduction side thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to method and apparatus for extracting water from atmospheric air. The method according to an embodiment of the invention does not depend on day and night temperature differentials and can operate at lower temperatures than were possible before. The present invention makes it possible to extract water vapors from the atmospheric air in relatively simple, inexpensive industrial plants or in smaller portable devices.

Abstract: Activated carbon having a specific surface area of 700 to 1,500 m2/g, a pore volume of pores having a pore diameter of 10 nm or less of 0.20 to 0.8 cc/g, a proportion of a pore volume of pores having a pore diameter of 0.6 to 0.8 nm to a pore volume of pores having a pore diameter of 10 nm or less of 75% by volume or more, a grain bulk density of 0.4 to 1.1 g/cc, a packing density of 0.30 to 0.70 g/cc, an ash content of 1.0% or less, and a tensile strength of activated carbon grains of 30 kg/cm2 or more.

Abstract: An apparatus for pressure and temperature swing adsorption processes is described. Such processes include pressure swing adsorption, temperature swing adsorption, and sorption cooling. The apparatus, a spirally wound module, provides high efficiency gas separations by reducing the differential pressure required between the adsorption pressure and the desorption pressure. The apparatus comprises an adsorption zone containing at least one adsorbent paper layer containing a selective adsorbent and an adsorbent spacer spirally wound about a hollow mandrel and in intimate thermal contact with a heat transfer zone. For pressure and temperature swing processes, the adsorption zone is disposed on the outside of the heat transfer zone, and for sorption cooling processes, the heat transfer zone is disposed on the outside of the adsorption zone and the adsorption zone is contained in an envelope-like leaf.

Abstract: The humidity in an equipment housing, 1, is reduced by providing a humidity pump which extracts humidity from the closed housing and vents it to the outside atmosphere. A tube 2 passes through a wall 11 of the housing and is open to the internal and external atmospheres. The tube 2 contains a first portion of hygroscopic regenerative desiccant 4 to absorb moisture in the housing. Wicking material 10 transfers the moisture to a second portion of regenerative desiccant 7. A heater 8 drives off the moisture from portion 7 creating a “moisture gradient” whereby moisture is continuously drawn off from the inside of the housing.