Experiments have been conducted to examine the adsorption/desorption characteristics of 1,1-dichloro-1-fluoroethane (HCFC-141b) by granular activated carbon (GAC) and extruded activated carbon. HCFC-141b is currently deemed an excellent replacement for CFC-11, a foaming agent widely used in the rigid polyurethane foam industries. Experimental results of adsorption and desorption were analyzed in terms of the equilibrium capacity, time to reach equilibrium and desorption efficiency of the adsorbent, and with the aim of assessing the viability of using both adsorbents for possible HCFC-141b recovery. The results have clearly revealed great potential for both adsorbents for this purpose.
