Method and apparatus for the continuous capturing and removal of gas molecules

摘要

A unique filtration method and device (10) which continuously removes several gas phase contaminants from an air stream through the use of partially hollow wicking fibers (20) impregnated with a selected liquid which can capture the gas phase contaminants. The wicking fibers (20) are generally disposed parallel and are formed into a filter element (12) which extends from the air stream to be cleaned into another air stream which can strip and carry away the unwanted gas phase contaminants. The gas phase contaminants are conveyed to the stripping air stream by a concentration factor induced molecular migration. The air stream to be cleaned is directed through a compartment (16) across which the filter element (12) extends so the complete air flow is through filter element (12). Filter element (12) also extends into another compartment (18) through which the stripping air stream flows. The wicking fibers (20) include internal longitudinal cavities (22) each with a relatively small longitudinal extending opening (24). The wicking fibers (20) are filled with the selected contaminant removing liquid through capillary action by which the individual wicking fibers (20) rapidly draw the selected liquid, with which they come into contact, through the internal cavities (22). The absorption liquid remains within the wicking fiber cavities (22) and generally does not enter the space between the wicking fibers yet through the longitudinal openings (24) the liquid is in full communication with the air stream flowing past the fibers (20).