Sorbent

Sorbent

A sorbent is a material used to absorb or adsorb liquids or gases. The process of absorption or adsorption occurs when atoms, ions, or molecules from a substance (it could be gas, liquid, or dissolved solid) adhere to a surface of the adsorbent. Sorbents are used in a wide range of applications, from environmental cleanup to industrial processes and healthcare.

Types of Sorbents

There are several types of sorbents, each with unique properties that make them suitable for specific applications. These include:

• Activated Carbon: This is a highly porous form of carbon that has a large surface area available for adsorption. It is commonly used in water and air purification, as well as in the removal of organic compounds from liquids and gases.

• Silica Gel: This is a type of desiccant that is used to control humidity and prevent spoilage in packaged goods. It is also used in chromatography, a method used to separate mixtures.

• Zeolites: These are microporous, aluminosilicate minerals that are commonly used as commercial adsorbents. They have a unique structure that allows them to selectively sort molecules based primarily on a size exclusion process.

• Polymer Sorbents: These are materials made from polymers that can absorb liquids. They are often used in applications such as oil spill cleanup and industrial waste management.

Applications of Sorbents

Sorbents have a wide range of applications in various fields. Some of the most common uses include:

• Environmental Cleanup: Sorbents are often used to clean up oil spills and other types of environmental contamination. They can absorb the contaminant, making it easier to collect and dispose of.

• Industrial Processes: In industry, sorbents are used to remove unwanted substances from gases or liquids. This can include removing impurities from natural gas or capturing carbon dioxide emissions.

• Healthcare: In healthcare, sorbents can be used in devices like dialysis machines to remove toxins from the blood. They can also be used in drug delivery systems to control the release of medication.

See Also

• Absorption (chemistry)
• Adsorption
• Desiccant
• Chromatography