Experimental and isotherm-models analysis on TCE and PCE adsorption onto activated carbon

This work presents an isotherm-models analysis on adsorption of trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE) from aqueous solution on activated carbon. Starting from experimental tests, the analysis of adsorption mechanisms is carried out through the evaluation of the isosteric heat of adsorption of both compounds. It shows the presence of lateral interactions between TCE molecules adsorbed on carbon surface, absent for PCE's. Furthermore, a modelling analysis is performed and a statistical method for the individuation of the best data fitting model, among the commonly adopted, is suggested.