Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating chemical production plant process condensate and low pressure purge gas such that a contaminant-rich stream is recoverable from the condensate and purge gas, wherein the contaminants are substantially removed from the condensate by steam stripping and subsequent rectification in a relatively low pressure stripping/rectification tower. The tower overhead is then condensed, and any non-condensed gases are subjected to water scrubbing, along with the low pressure purge gas to further recover contaminates from the non-condensed gas. A portion of the condensed overhead and scrubbing water containing contaminates is returned to the top of the rectification section of the tower as reflux and the balance being withdrawn as a concentrated stream for reuse in the plant. The apparatus may be used in conjunction with existing low pressure equipment, avoiding costly major modifications, and is particularly adapted to use in conjunction with ammonia and methanol plants.

Abstract: A chemical contamination monitoring system is provided for monitoring and decontaminating protective clothing that has been exposed to toxic chemicals. The system includes a decontamination chamber in which the clothing is supported and a spray assembly, including a plurality of suitably directed spray nozzles, for spraying the clothing with a wash-solvent. Hot air is directed over the clothing to volitalize the contaminates and, after passing over the clothing, the hot air is withdrawn for analysis using gas chromatography or other known techniques. The used solvent can also be analyzed.