Abstract: Apparatus, and a method for using the apparatus, for stripping solid material containing at least one volatile organic compound (VOC). The apparatus is provided with a dryer having a heat source to heat the VOC-containing material to a first temperature, hot enough to volatilize the VOC, but below the cracking temperature of the VOC. The VOC in the dryer is volatilized to form VOC gases. A means for combusting the VOC gases (e.g. a kiln) heats the VOC gases with excess air to a second temperature, hot enough to destroy the organics in the VOC gases. Simultaneously the combustion means preferably can be used to treat a kiln processable material to form a desired product. The kiln includes means for feeding the kiln processable material to the heating chamber, means for cooling and recovering the desired product, and means for providing heat for the VOC dryer. The apparatus also includes a conduit for conducting the gases containing VOC from the dryer to the kiln.

Abstract: Apparatus, and a method for using the apparatus, for detoxifying material contaminated with at least one volatile organic compound (VOC). The apparatus is provided with a dryer having a heat source to heat the VOC-contaminated material to a first temperature, hot enough to volatilize the VOC, but below the cracking temperature of the VOC. The VOC in the dryer is volatilized to form VOC gases. A kiln heats the VOC gases with excess air to a second temperature, hot enough to destroy the organics in the VOC gases. Simultaneously the kiln is used to treat a kiln processable material to form a desired product. The kiln includes means for feeding the kiln processable material to the heating chamber, means for cooling and recovering the desired product, and means for providing heat for the VOC dryer. The apparatus also includes a conduit for conducting the gases containing VOC from the dryer to the kiln.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing particulate matter from gases includes an outer tube having an apertured bottom member, a plurality of stationary vanes for guiding gases into a vortical path through the outer tube, and an inner tube. The inner tube has a smaller diameter than the outer tube and fits partially inside the outer tube. Since the inner tube is arranged coaxially with respect to the outer tube, an annular passageway is defined between them. The passageway end of the outer tube is flared out forming a bell-mouth-shaped lip. A plurality of separate airfoil-shaped vanes, disposed across the passageway have their leading edges above the passageway. The bell-mouth-shaped lip and airfoil-shaped vanes, with their thicker leading edges extending above the passageway, both contribute to a more laminar flow through the passageway, thereby minimizing the pressure drop through the passageway.