Integration of microwave energy and novel adsorbents for environmentally sustainable air pollution control

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The emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is a serious environmental issue. VOCs react in the atmosphere to form ground-level ozone which causes eye irritation and respiratory problems. In addition, many VOCs may be carcinogenic and/or neurotoxic to humans. Major sources of these emissions include the gas and oil industry and processes using organic solvents, such as surface coatings. In Canada, more than 2.5 million tonnes of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were emitted to the atmosphere in 2005. These emissions are expected to increase to 2.8 million tonnes in 2010 (Environment Canada, 2007). Hence, technologies need to be developed to more efficiently control those emissions, at lower cost and with lower energy consumption. Technologies need also to promote sustainable development through the recycle and reuse of the resources, whenever feasible.