Analysis of Toluene: Removal of toluene from the air s tream using a bed made of metal-organic frameworks adsorbent

Abstract

Toluene is one of the most dangerous and, simultaneously, the most consumed substances in various factories. Toluene strongly affects the central nervous system. The numerous side effects caused by exposure to toluene indicate the removal of toluene vapours from the air in the workplace. This study aims to use the removal of toluene vapours from the air using a Fe-MOFs metal-organic substrate for the first time in the world and to investigate efficient methods to increase the efficiency of removing toluene vapours from the air. This experimental study was carried out on a laboratory scale. After the iron metal-organic framework (Fe-MOFs) was synthesized, the components affecting the adsorption rate, such as reaction time (5-20 min), initial concentration (100-400 mg L-1), adsorbent amount, and temperature (25-80oC) were analyzed and optimized. Then, the efficiency of removing toluene vapours from the air was determined using a gas chromatography device. The absorption capacity of toluene was obtained by the desired adsorbent, 337.2 mg g-1. Also, the effect of different parameters on toluene absorption was investigated and optimized. The maximum absorption for concentration (300 mg L-1), temperature (75oC), and contact time (160s)  obtained as 340 mg g-1, 331 mg g-1, and 325 mg g-1, respectively.