Activated Carbon Fiber Composite Material with Integrated Catalytic Media

Reference Number(s)
     Laboratory:  111
     Docket Number:  1300001579
     DOE reference no.(s): 105,181

Abstract

The invention comprises an activated carbon fiber composite monolith which incorporates a catalyst material. The subject invention would be useful in gas and liquid phase applications in which catalytic activity for specific reaction(s) is required. A particularly notable example is the capture and destruction of chemical warfare agents (CWA). Catalytic destruction of CWAs would result in relatively harmless compounds that could be adsorbed on the activated carbon component of the monolith (the CWA itself may not be deactivated through adsorption alone).

The invention material could be contained in cartridges for respirators, and similarly in collective protection (COLPRO) systems for buildings, military fighting vehicles, warships, and aircraft, etc. A novel attribute of the invention material is its electrical conductivity, which could be exploited for electrical regeneration of the material in the field. Gas mask canisters would be removed from the mask and regenerated in a chamber, whereas COLPRO systems could be regenerated in place. Yet another attribute of the subject invention is low pressure drop; i.e., low resistance to air flow, which is of paramount importance in the practical use of respirators.

Application(s) of the Technology

Protection of military warfighters and support personnel against CBR threats; for example, in buildings, fighting vehicles, warships, and aircraft, etc. Improvements in HVAC systems of a large hotels and buildings.

Main Advantages of Invention

This system offers a collective protection (COLPRO) system for use in respirators that provides:

1. High surface area and large pore volume increase effective filtration capacity of the adsorption media.

2. A rigid, permeable carbon structure that is mechanically strong (much more resistant to attrition than packed granular beds) yet exhibits comparable or better pressure drop characteristics.

3. Significant electrical conductivity that facilitates regeneration of the adsorbent media through resistive heating.

4. Enhance filtration of aerosol and particulates through incorporation of a nanofiber web.

5. Substantial cost benefits through the reduced logistical support required for a regenerable COLPRO system; e.g., greatly reduced costs for adsorption media replacement.

Status/Availability

Available both Exclusively and Non Exclusively

Patents & Applications

Posting Date:  Tuesday, Nov 22 2005

Contact

Ashok Choudhury
Oak Ridge National Laboratory
P.O. Box 2008
Building /4500N, Room 137
Mailstop 6196
Oak Ridge, TN 37831
(865) 574-0393
choudhurya@ornl.gov