The characterization of an active carbon in terms of selectivity towards volatile organic compounds using an LSER approach

In order to improve the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the adsorption of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) on coal materials, and in order to predict selectivity values between given pairs of VOCs, an LSER (Linear Solvation Energy Relationship) approach has been used. Gas–solid partition coefficients at infinite dilution of 14 VOCs on a commercial coal material have been obtained by the gas chromatographic method of elution by characteristic point. Analysis of the gas–solid partition coefficients by the LSER equation developed by Abraham et al. [1] shows that the main interactions involved in the adsorption process are general dispersion interactions, and hydrogen-bond interactions. The coefficients in the LSER equation can be used to characterize the adsorbent, and are found to be in good agreement with its chemical composition. The LSER equation has also been used to predict the selectivity of the adsorbent towards various pairs of VOCs.