摘要 |
A flow-through carbon adsorption device is provided with leads for imposing an electric current and with a temperature sensor at the desorption flow exit. The temperature sensor and electric current source are controlled by a controller. In adsorption mode, no current flows through the device. Hydrocarbons are adsorbed in the device before reaching atmosphere. In desorption mode, the temperature sensor and electric source are activated by the controller. Electric energy is converted to heat energy within the device. Air is drawn in reverse flow through the device. Because desorption is endothermic, the carbon bed becomes progressively cooler during desorption. When desorption is complete, the temperature of the device begins to rise and the controller shuts down the temperature probe and the electric heating system. Thus, full desorption of the device is assured without significant waste of electricity or compromise of subsequent adsorptive capacity of the device after desorption is complete.
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