Complexation adsorbent for ethylene-ethane separation: Preparation and adsorption equilibrium

The π-complexation adsorbent AgNO₃/γ-Al₂O₃ was prepared from AgNO₃ supported on γ-Al₂O₃ by the method of impregnation. The adsorbent is used for ethylene-ethane separation. The monolayer dispersion of AgNO₃ on γ-Al₂O₃ was characterized with BET and XRD, and the maximum monolayer dispersion capacity of AgNO₃ on γ-Al₂O₃ was calculated by XRD quantitative phase analysis. The adsorption equilibrium isotherms of ethylene and ethane on this adsorbent were measured at 38°C. The adsorption equilibrium data of ethylene and ethane could be properly fitted by the Langmuir-Freundlich model. The π-complexation adsorbent AgNO₃/γ-Al₂O₃ had high equilibrium selectivity of ethylene, and the selective adsorption ratio of ethylene to ethane at 38°C and 100 kPa was 10.1, showing its potential for commercial application.