Waste Activated Carbon Regeneration Device Using Steam And Regeneration Method The Same

Abstract

According to one embodiment of the present invention, a spent activated carbon regeneration device may be provided, comprising: a desorber that provides a moving space for moving spent activated carbon on which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed, and indirectly heats the spent activated carbon through indirect heating steam flowing along an indirect heating steam tube located inside the desorber, and supplies superheated steam to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space, and discharges a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space; and a reformer that generates synthesis gas from the volatile organic compounds and the superheated steam, wherein the reformer is connected to the exhaust pipe and the superheated steam flows continuously between the moving space and the reformer and is used for both the desorption and reforming of the volatile organic compounds.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present embodiment relates to a regeneration apparatus and a regeneration method for regenerating spent activated carbon by utilizing superheated steam and indirect heating steam to desorb high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from spent activated carbon. Background Technology

[0002] Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are classified as specific hazardous air pollutants along with heavy metals and can be emitted from various industrial processes. In particular, they are released into the atmosphere through processes such as printing and painting, chemical production, and biomass carbonization; when combined with atmospheric fine dust and nitrogen oxides, they can become a major cause of ozone formation and smog.

[0003] In addition, most volatile organic compounds cause odors even at low concentrations, and upon contact with the human body, they pose a risk of causing disorders in the nervous system and are classified as carcinogens. Therefore, the United States regulates 189 substances classified as HAPs (Hazardous Air Pollutants), and in Korea, 48 substances, including toluene, one of the most commonly used volatile organic compounds, are designated as regulated substances.

[0004] To address these environmental and hygiene issues, volatile organic compounds can be adsorbed using activated carbon to prevent their release into the atmosphere. Here, activated carbon possesses fine particle size and a large surface area, making it an effective method for adsorbing and removing volatile organic compounds.

[0005] The operating principle of activated carbon utilizes physical properties such as van der Waals forces. When volatile organic compounds pass through activated carbon, they enter the fine capillaries and can be adsorbed onto the surface of the activated carbon by van der Waals forces.

[0006] Meanwhile, spent activated carbon adsorbed with volatile organic compounds can be regenerated and reused, but volatile organic compounds may be re-generated during this regeneration process. The generated volatile organic compounds can be converted into synthesis gas through a steam reforming reaction.

[0007] Generally, when opening a steam chamber, it is desirable to maintain the ratio of steam to carbon within a specific range; maintaining this ratio requires the desorption of significant amounts of highly concentrated volatile organic compounds.

[0008] Meanwhile, the flow rates of spent activated carbon and steam can be determined to match a specific range of ratios of steam and carbon. However, since the thermal conductivity of general activated carbon is very low, ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 kcal / m·hr·℃, if sufficient heat transfer is not achieved, the desorption of volatile organic compounds may not be properly carried out, and there is a problem that it takes a long time to raise the temperature of the activated carbon to the general desorption temperature of 150 to 200℃.

[0009] Therefore, despite the low thermal conductivity of activated carbon, there is an increasing demand for technology that enables effective heat transfer and shortens the heating time to improve process efficiency. The problem to be solved

[0010] Against this backdrop, the objective of the present embodiment is to provide a spent activated carbon regeneration device capable of efficiently desorbing high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from spent activated carbon by increasing heat transfer efficiency through indirect heating.

[0011] In addition, another objective of the present embodiment is to provide a spent activated carbon regeneration device capable of preventing fluid leakage through a pressure reducing device.

[0012] Furthermore, another objective of the present embodiment is to provide a method for regenerating spent activated carbon that can shorten process time and simplify the process by increasing the heating rate of the spent activated carbon. means of solving the problem

[0013] To achieve the aforementioned objective, one embodiment may provide a spent activated carbon regeneration device comprising: a desorber that provides a moving space for a spent activated carbon on which a volatile organic compound is adsorbed, and indirectly heats the spent activated carbon through steam flowing along a steam tube for indirect heating located inside the desorber, and supplies superheated steam to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space, and discharges a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compound desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space; and a reformer that generates synthesis gas from the volatile organic compound and the superheated steam, wherein the reformer is connected to the exhaust pipe and the superheated steam flows continuously between the moving space and the reformer and is used for both the desorption and reforming of the volatile organic compound.

[0014] To prevent the fluid flowing in the above-mentioned moving space from leaking to the outside, a pressure reducing device located between the reforming reactor and the exhaust pipe may be further included.

[0015] The above superheated steam and the above indirect heating steam can be generated from a steam generator.

[0016] The above superheated steam is generated from the steam generator and heated through a superheater, and can be controlled to 250 to 400°C.

[0017] The above indirect heating steam can be controlled to 100 to 200°C.

[0018] The above superheated steam and the above spent activated carbon can be supplied to the desorber to satisfy the following equation (1).

[0019] Equation (1): 2 ≤ S / C ≤ 4

[0020] In equation (1), S is superheated steam, and C is carbon contained in spent activated carbon in which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed.

[0021] The superheated steam supplied through the intake pipe can be injected into the moving space through a circular superheated steam tube located at the bottom of the desorber.

[0022] The above superheated steam is injected in the lower direction of the desorber and can flow in the opposite direction to the movement path of the spent activated carbon in the moving space and be discharged in the upper direction of the desorber.

[0023] The above steam tube for indirect heating may have a spiral coil shape.

[0024] The structure of the desorber is formed so that the spent activated carbon moves from the upper side to the lower side by gravity in the moving space, and the spent activated carbon can remain in the moving space for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0025] A cyclone is further disposed between the exhaust pipe and the pressure reducing device, and as the fluid passes through the cyclone by the vapor pressure of the superheated steam, dust contained in the fluid can be separated and discharged from the cyclone.

[0026] The above desorbent includes an inlet for receiving spent activated carbon and a discharge port for discharging regenerated activated carbon, and a discharge cap may be disposed at the bottom of the discharge port to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon located at the center of the moving space so that the residence time of the spent activated carbon moving in the moving space is uniform.

[0027] Another embodiment may provide a method for regenerating spent activated carbon, comprising: a spent activated carbon input step of introducing spent activated carbon with adsorbed volatile organic compounds into a moving space; an indirect heating step of indirectly heating the spent activated carbon through indirect heating steam flowing along an indirect heating steam tube located inside a desorber; a desorption step of desorbing the volatile organic compounds from the spent activated carbon by supplying superheated steam to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space; a discharge step in which a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam is discharged through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space, and the regenerated activated carbon from which the volatile organic compounds have been desorbed is discharged through a discharge port; and a synthesis gas generation step in which the volatile organic compounds and the steam react in a reforming reactor connected to the exhaust pipe to generate synthesis gas.

[0028] The indirect heating steam flowing along the above indirect heating steam tube can be controlled to 100 to 200°C.

[0029] The temperature of the superheated steam supplied to the intake pipe can be controlled to 250 to 400°C.

[0030] The above desorption step may include a superheated steam injection step in which the superheated steam is injected in the downward direction of the desorption device through a circular superheated steam tube located at the bottom of the desorption device.

[0031] The structure of the moving space is formed so that the spent activated carbon moves from the upper side to the lower side by gravity in the moving space, and the spent activated carbon can stay in the moving space for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0032] A discharge cap may be disposed at the lower part of the discharge port to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon located at the center of the moving space, thereby ensuring that the residence time of the spent activated carbon moving in the moving space is uniform. Effects of the invention

[0033] As described above, according to the present embodiment, a spent activated carbon regeneration device capable of effectively desorbing high concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from spent activated carbon through high heat transfer efficiency via indirect heating can be provided.

[0034] In addition, according to the present embodiment, a spent activated carbon regeneration device can be provided that prevents leakage of fluid flowing inside the desorber through a pressure reduction device.

[0035] Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, a method for regenerating spent activated carbon can be provided, which can simplify the process by shortening the process time through the realization of a high heating rate of the spent activated carbon.

[0036] The technical problems to be solved in this document are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs from the description below. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0037] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an activated carbon circulation system according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a detailed configuration diagram of a spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a diagram showing the structure in which a reformer and a generator are connected. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the structure in which the desorption unit and the generator are connected. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a reaction in a moving space according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a superheated steam tube according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the movement path of superheated steam according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the movement path of steam for indirect heating according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cyclone according to one embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing that the discharge of spent activated carbon is controlled by a discharge cap according to one embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to one embodiment. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0038] Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the exemplary drawings. It should be noted that in assigning reference numerals to the components of each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numeral whenever possible, even if they are shown in different drawings. Furthermore, in describing the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of related known components or functions could obscure the essence of the invention, such detailed description is omitted.

[0039] In addition, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b), etc., may be used when describing the components of the present invention. These terms are intended only to distinguish the components from other components, and the essence, order, or sequence of the components is not limited by the terms. Where it is stated that a component is "connected," "combined," or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or connected to the other component, but that another component may also be "connected," "combined," or "connected" between each component.

[0040] A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment of the present invention provides a moving space for the spent activated carbon on which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed, and indirectly heats the spent activated carbon through steam flowing along a steam tube for indirect heating located inside the desorber, and superheated steam is supplied to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space, and a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam is discharged through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space, and includes a reforming reactor that generates synthesis gas from the volatile organic compounds and the superheated steam, and may include a reformer in which the reforming reactor is connected to the exhaust pipe and the superheated steam flows continuously in the moving space and the reforming reactor and is used for both the desorption and reforming of the volatile organic compounds.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of an activated carbon circulation system according to one embodiment.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, the activated carbon circulation system (100) may include a VOCs adsorption device (120) and a spent activated carbon regeneration device (110).

[0043] The VOCs adsorption device (120) can be placed in printing and painting and chemical product manufacturing facilities of large and small enterprises.

[0044] The VOCs adsorption device (120) can adsorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs) using activated carbon (140). The VOCs adsorption device (120) can cause the activated carbon (140) to move from the upper side to the lower side by gravity. Additionally, the VOCs adsorption device (120) can introduce contaminated gas containing volatile organic compounds so that the contaminated gas passes through the activated carbon (140). Through this process, the activated carbon (140) can be transformed into spent activated carbon (130) with adsorbed volatile organic compounds.

[0045] Waste activated carbon (130) discharged from the VOCs adsorption device (120) can be transferred to the waste activated carbon regeneration device (110) by means of a transport device.

[0046] Additionally, the spent activated carbon regeneration device (110) can desorb volatile organic compounds from the spent activated carbon (130) to produce reusable activated carbon (140). The activated carbon (140) can then be moved to the VOCs adsorption device (120) by means of a transport device and reused.

[0047] The spent activated carbon regeneration device (110) can not only produce reusable activated carbon (140) by desorbing volatile organic compounds from spent activated carbon (130), but also produce synthetic gas with high utility and low pollution by modifying the desorbed volatile organic compounds.

[0048] Since volatile organic compounds consist of hydrocarbons, they can be converted into synthesis gas composed of hydrogen and carbon monoxide through the steam reforming reaction using the following chemical equation.

[0049] [Chemical reaction equation]

[0050] C x H y + x H2O -> x CO + (x + y / 2)H2

[0051] C x H y O z + (xz)H2O -> xCO + (x - z + y / 2)H2

[0052] In order to modify volatile organic compounds according to this chemical reaction equation, it is necessary to react the volatile organic compounds with steam (hereinafter referred to as 'steam'). At this time, steam is used, and the spent activated carbon regeneration device (110) according to one embodiment can increase energy efficiency and simplify the process by using the steam used in the process of desorbing volatile organic compounds to continuously modify the volatile organic compounds. In this respect, the spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment may also be called a continuous spent activated carbon regeneration device.

[0053] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a detailed diagram showing the spent activated carbon regeneration device according to one embodiment.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the spent activated carbon regeneration device (110) may include a desorber (210) and a reformer (220), etc.

[0055] The desorber (210) can provide a moving space for the spent activated carbon to move. The moving space can be formed in a structure that allows the spent activated carbon (130) to move from the upper side to the lower side by gravity. For example, the moving space can be formed in the shape of a desorption tower, and the spent activated carbon (130) can be fed into the upper side of the desorption tower and then moved to the lower side by gravity.

[0056] The spent activated carbon (130) introduced into the moving space can be preheated by indirect heating steam supplied from a steam generator (610). Since the thermal conductivity of the activated carbon is very low, ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 kcal / m·hr·℃, it may take a long time to raise the temperature to a normal desorption temperature. Therefore, the present invention aims to preheat the spent activated carbon (130) introduced into the moving space through indirect heating steam.

[0057] Steam for indirect heating can travel along an indirect heating steam tube located inside the desorber (210). The indirect heating steam tube has a spiral coil shape and can be positioned along the path of the spent activated carbon (130) in the center inside the desorber (210). Therefore, the contact area of ​​the indirect heating steam tube with the spent activated carbon (130) is large, allowing for effective heat transfer and easy preheating of the spent activated carbon (130).

[0058] In addition, the steam for indirect heating can be controlled to 100 to 200°C so that the spent activated carbon (130) can be preheated.

[0059] Meanwhile, steam tubes for indirect heating can utilize metals with high thermal conductivity. For example, steam tubes for indirect heating can be made of materials such as copper, aluminum, and stainless steel.

[0060] In the desorption tower forming the movement space, a plurality of inclined plates may be arranged in staggered directions. Then, the spent activated carbon (130) may flow downward while moving in an inclined shape along the inclined plates. At this time, the time the spent activated carbon (130) remains in the movement space may be controlled according to the angle of the inclined plates, the number of inclined plates, the height of the desorption tower, etc. In one embodiment, the spent activated carbon (130) may remain in the movement space for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0061] Meanwhile, at least one of a steam tube for indirect heating and a plurality of inclined plates may be installed inside the desorption tower.

[0062] The spent activated carbon (130) moving in the moving space can be regenerated by desorbing volatile organic compounds by steam. If the spent activated carbon is placed in a certain space and the volatile organic compounds are desorbed, the concentration of the desorbed volatile organic compounds changes over time, and in this case, a constant supply of volatile organic compounds cannot be obtained in the subsequent reforming reaction. On the other hand, if the volatile organic compounds are desorbed from the moving spent activated carbon (130), the amount of volatile organic compounds desorbed over time can be maintained relatively constant, so there is an advantage in that a constant supply of volatile organic compounds can be obtained in the subsequent reforming reaction.

[0063] Meanwhile, the spent activated carbon (130) can be regenerated by steam, and for this purpose, superheated steam can be supplied through an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space. The temperature of the superheated steam can be controlled to 250 to 400°C. Also, the pressure of the superheated steam can be controlled to atmospheric pressure or higher than atmospheric pressure. For example, the pressure of the superheated steam can be 1 to 2 atmospheres.

[0064] The amount of superheated steam supplied to one side of the moving space can be determined to be 2 to 4 times the stoichiometric ratio of carbon contained in the spent activated carbon on which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed. For example, the amount of superheated steam supplied to the intake pipe can be determined to be 2 to 4 times x in the aforementioned chemical reaction equation.

[0065] Superheated steam can be supplied to rise from the lower side to the upper side of the moving space. In the moving space, the spent activated carbon (130) moves from the upper side to the lower side and the superheated steam rises from the lower side to the upper side, allowing them to meet each other. Then, volatile organic compounds adsorbed on the spent activated carbon (130) are desorbed by the superheated steam, and the desorbed volatile organic compounds can move upward in the form of a fluid mixed with steam.

[0066] An exhaust pipe may be connected to the other side of the movement space. Additionally, a fluid mixed with vapor and volatile organic compounds desorbed by the vapor may be discharged through the exhaust pipe.

[0067] The aforementioned intake pipe may be formed on the lower side of the moving space—e.g., the desorption tower—and the exhaust pipe may be formed on the upper side of the moving space.

[0068] When the transport space is formed in the shape of a desorption tower, a plurality of inclined plates may be arranged within the desorption tower. Some of these inclined plates have multiple pores formed therein, allowing vapors and volatile organic compounds to rise by penetrating the pores. Additionally, some of the inclined plates may not have pores formed therein, and these plates can serve to guide the flow of the fluid. The inclined plates with pores may be mainly placed at the lower side of the desorption tower, while the inclined plates without pores may be mainly placed at the upper side of the desorption tower.

[0069] The mixed fluid guided to the exhaust pipe by the inclined plate, etc., can be transferred to the reformer (220) through the connecting device (230).

[0070] The connecting device (230) may include a cyclone (310) and a pressure reducing device (340).

[0071] The cyclone (310) can remove dust contained in the mixed fluid discharged from the desorber (210).

[0072] Specifically, the mixed fluid discharged from the desorber (210) may contain not only vapor and volatile organic compounds but also dust generated by the wear of activated carbon. And, the mixed fluid containing such dust may be delivered to the input pipe.

[0073] Dust contained in the mixed fluid can be separated by the fluid flow within the cyclone (310) and discharged to the lower side of the cyclone (310) when the fluid passes through the cyclone (310).

[0074] The mixed fluid that has passed through the cyclone (310) can be moved to the pressure reducing device (340) through the output pipe (330).

[0075] The pressure reduction device (340) can reduce the pressure inside the moving space of the desorber (210) to prevent the fluid flowing inside the moving space from leaking out. Accordingly, the pressure reduction device (340) can maintain negative pressure inside the moving space of the desorber (210) and prevent fluid from leaking out, thereby maintaining the stoichiometric ratio of the amount of superheated steam supplied to one side of the moving space and the carbon contained in the spent activated carbon with adsorbed volatile organic compounds at an appropriate level.

[0076] The reformer (220) may include a reforming reactor, in which volatile organic compounds and steam react to produce synthesis gas—e.g., hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), etc.

[0077] The reforming reactor can be connected to the exhaust pipe of the aforementioned transfer space, so that the steam used for desorption flows continuously between the transfer space and the reforming reactor, allowing it to be used for both the desorption and reforming of volatile organic compounds.

[0078] Since the desorber is designed as a mobile structure in which spent activated carbon is continuously supplied from the moving space, it can continuously supply volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at a constant concentration to the reformer. The reforming of synthesis gas can only proceed smoothly if VOCs can be desorbed at a constant concentration or ratio in this way.

[0079] Meanwhile, since the reforming reaction is an endothermic reaction, the temperature of the reforming reactor needs to be maintained at a constant level. In order to lower the temperature, the reforming reactor according to one embodiment may use one of nickel (Ni), rhodium (Rh), and platinum (Pt) as a catalyst. Also, the support in the reforming reactor may be activated carbon, zeolite, carbon black, alumina, etc.

[0080] The connecting device connecting the desorber and the reformer (see 230 in FIG. 2) may consist only of piping, or may additionally include a purification device such as a cyclone.

[0081] Figure 4 is a diagram showing the structure in which a reformer and a generator are connected.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 4, the spent activated carbon regeneration device may further include a generator (410), and the generator (410) can generate heat and electricity using synthetic gas—e.g., hydrogen, carbon monoxide—supplied from the reformer (220).

[0083] The reaction between volatile organic compounds and steam in the reforming reactor may be an endothermic reaction. At this time, heat is required, and the generator (410) can increase thermal efficiency by supplying part or all of the generated heat to the reforming reactor.

[0084] More electricity may be required for the operation of the reformer (220), and this electricity can also be supplied by the generator (410).

[0085] The heat and electricity generated from the generator (410) can also be supplied to the desorber.

[0086] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the structure in which the desorption unit and the generator are connected.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 5, the spent activated carbon regeneration device may further include a steam generator (610) and a superheater (620) that generate superheated steam.

[0088] The steam generator (610) can generate steam using heat, and the steam generated in the steam generator (610) can be heated through a superheater (620) to generate high-temperature superheated steam. At this time, some or all of the heat generated in the generator (410) can be supplied to the steam generator (610) and the superheater (620).

[0089] More electricity may be required for the operation of the steam generator (610) and superheater (620), and this electricity can also be supplied by the generator (410).

[0090] Meanwhile, some of the steam generated in the steam generator (610) can be introduced into an indirect heating steam tube to preheat the spent activated carbon (130) introduced into the moving space, and the remaining steam generated in the steam generator (610) can be passed through a superheater (620) to become superheated steam and used for the desorption of the spent activated carbon (130).

[0091] To aid in understanding the embodiment, the detachment process in the moving space is explained further.

[0092] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a reaction in a moving space according to one embodiment.

[0093] Referring to FIG. 6, the detacher (210) can form a moving space (560) through the detachment tower (510).

[0094] An inlet (530) is formed on the upper side of the desorption tower (510), and spent activated carbon with adsorbed volatile organic compounds can be introduced into the inlet (530).

[0095] A discharge port (540) is formed on the lower side of the desorption tower (510), and regenerated activated carbon from which volatile organic compounds have been desorbed can be discharged through the discharge port (540).

[0096] Activated carbon can move from the upper side where the inlet (530) is formed to the lower side where the outlet (540) is formed, and volatile organic compounds can be desorbed during the movement process. According to this movable or moving bed structure, spent activated carbon can be continuously introduced to the upper side and regenerated activated carbon can be continuously discharged to the lower side, thereby enabling the generation of regenerated activated carbon at a uniform rate regardless of the passage of time, and allowing volatile organic compounds to be continuously desorbed during the process.

[0097] A plurality of inclined plates (570a, 570b, 570c) may be arranged in the movement space (560). Waste activated carbon introduced through the inlet (530) may move sequentially on each inclined plate from the upper inclined plate (570a) to the lower inclined plate (570c).

[0098] Some of the inclined plates (570a, 570b, 570c) may have a number of pores formed therein. Through these pores, steam can be supplied to the spent activated carbon, and volatile organic compounds desorbed from the spent activated carbon can also escape.

[0099] Some of the other inclined plates (570a, 570b, 570c) may not have pores formed in them. These inclined plates can guide the direction of gases moving from the lower side to the upper side.

[0100] Meanwhile, at least one of an indirect heating steam tube (561) and a plurality of inclined plates (570) may be installed in the desorption tower (510).

[0101] An intake pipe (520) may be formed on one side of the detachment tower (510). The intake pipe (520) may be formed on the lower part of the side of the detachment tower (510).

[0102] An exhaust pipe (550) may be formed on the other side of the desorption tower (510). The exhaust pipe (550) may be formed on the upper part of the side of the desorption tower (510) and on the side opposite to the intake pipe (520).

[0103] Superheated steam can be supplied to the intake pipe (520), and this superheated steam can rise upward along the first path (582) through the pores or surrounding space of a plurality of inclined plates from the lower side and then be discharged through the exhaust pipe (550).

[0104] The activated carbon can move downward along the second path (581) on a number of inclined plates.

[0105] The first path (582) formed from the lower side to the upper side and the second path (581) formed from the upper side to the lower side meet each other, and the volatile organic compound can be desorbed at the part where the first path (582) and the second path (581) meet.

[0106] Accordingly, volatile organic compounds initially move from the upper side to the lower side along the same path as spent activated carbon, but upon encountering steam, they are desorbed and can rise from the lower side to the upper side along with the steam. This path is represented by the third path (583).

[0107] Through this desorption reaction, spent activated carbon can be continuously regenerated and a certain concentration of volatile organic compounds can be generated, and also, the stoichiometric ratio of the amount of superheated steam and the carbon contained in the spent activated carbon adsorbed with volatile organic compounds can be maintained at a constant level.

[0108] This stoichiometric ratio can be expressed by the following equation (1).

[0109] Equation (1): 2 ≤ S / C ≤ 4

[0110] In equation (1), S is superheated steam, and C is carbon contained in spent activated carbon in which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed.

[0111] Therefore, the stoichiometric ratio of the amount of superheated steam supplied to one side of the moving space (560) and the carbon contained in the spent activated carbon in which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed can satisfy the above equation (1).

[0112] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a superheated steam tube according to one embodiment, and FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a path of superheated steam according to one embodiment.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the superheated steam tube (521) located at the bottom of the desorber (210) may be provided in a donut-shaped circular form. Superheated steam heated by a superheater (620) flows into the superheated steam tube (521) through the intake pipe (520), and the superheated steam can be injected toward the bottom of the desorber (210) and supplied to the moving space (560). The superheated steam supplied in this way can flow in the opposite direction to the movement path of the spent activated carbon (130) and be discharged toward the top of the desorber (210).

[0114] FIG. 7 (A) is a drawing showing the upper part of the superheated steam tube (521), and FIG. 7 (B) is a drawing showing the lower part of the superheated steam tube (521). Superheated steam can be sprayed toward the lower direction of the desorber (210) through a plurality of nozzles shown in FIG. 7 (B).

[0115] Meanwhile, the superheated steam tube (521) can be fixed to the detacher (210) by a bracket (522).

[0116] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the movement path of steam for indirect heating according to one embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 9, indirect heating steam can travel along an indirect heating steam tube (561) located inside a desorber (210). The indirect heating steam tube (561) is in the shape of a spiral coil and can be positioned along the path of the spent activated carbon (130) in the center of the desorber (210). Thus, the contact area of ​​the indirect heating steam tube (561) with the spent activated carbon (130) is large, allowing for effective heat transfer and easy preheating of the spent activated carbon (130).

[0118] In addition, the steam for indirect heating can be controlled to 100 to 200°C so that the spent activated carbon (130) can be preheated.

[0119] The indirect heating steam tube (561) is located in the center of the inside of the desorber (210), and the spent activated carbon (130) can come into direct contact with the outer wall of the indirect heating steam tube (561) to perform heat exchange. Additionally, the indirect heating steam tube (561) has a spiral coil shape, and the spent activated carbon (130) can flow and move both inside and outside the coil shape of the indirect heating steam tube (561).

[0120] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a cyclone according to one embodiment.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 10, the cyclone (310) included in the connecting device (230) can be connected to the input pipe (320) and the output pipe (330).

[0122] The input pipe (320) can be connected to the exhaust pipe (550) of the desorber (210).

[0123] The mixed fluid discharged from the desorber (210) may contain not only vapor and volatile organic compounds but also dust generated by the wear of activated carbon. And, the mixed fluid containing such dust may be delivered to the input pipe (320).

[0124] Dust contained in the mixed fluid can be separated by the fluid flow within the cyclone (310) and discharged to the lower side of the cyclone (310) when the fluid passes through the cyclone (310).

[0125] In order to form a fluid flow in the cyclone (310), a constant pressure must be formed in the mixed fluid, and the vapor pressure of the steam contained in the mixed fluid can form this pressure. The mixed fluid can pass through the cyclone (310) by the vapor pressure of the steam, and thereby by-products can be separated and discharged.

[0126] And, a mixed fluid consisting of steam and volatile organic compounds can flow to a reformer (220) through an output pipe (330).

[0127] The reformer (220) can react this mixed fluid to produce synthesis gas. Then, this synthesis gas is supplied to a generator, and the generator can use the synthesis gas to generate heat and electricity.

[0128] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing that the discharge of spent activated carbon is controlled by a discharge cap according to one embodiment.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 11, a discharge cap (590) may be placed on the discharge port (540) side to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located in the center of the moving space (560) so that the residence time of the spent activated carbon (130) moving in the moving space (560) is uniform.

[0130] In the absence of a discharge cap (590), the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located at the center of the moving space (560) is fast, and the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located at the edge of the moving space (560) is slow, so the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) inside the moving space (560) may be uneven. In this case, the detachment of the spent activated carbon (130) located at the center of the moving space (560) is not sufficiently achieved, making it difficult to reuse the activated carbon (140). Therefore, in the present invention, a discharge cap (590) is to be placed on the discharge port (540) side to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located at the center of the moving space (560).

[0131] The discharge cap (590) may be composed of a cone-shaped cap and a plurality of supports that support it. By doing so, the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located at the center of the moving space (560) is slowed down, and the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) inside the moving space (560) is made uniform, thereby allowing sufficient detachment of the spent activated carbon (130).

[0132] Next, a method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0133] A method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to one embodiment of the present invention may include: a spent activated carbon input step of introducing spent activated carbon, on which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed, into a moving space; an indirect heating step of indirectly heating the spent activated carbon through steam flowing along an indirect heating steam tube located inside a desorber; a desorption step of desorbing the volatile organic compounds from the spent activated carbon by supplying superheated steam to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space; a discharge step in which a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam is discharged through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space, and the regenerated activated carbon from which the volatile organic compounds have been desorbed is discharged through a discharge port; and a synthesis gas generation step in which the volatile organic compounds and the steam react in a reforming reactor connected to the exhaust pipe to generate synthesis gas.

[0134] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to one embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 12, a method for regenerating spent activated carbon (S700) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a series of steps: a spent activated carbon input step (S710), an indirect heating step (S720), a desorption step (S730), a discharge step (S740), and a synthesis gas generation step (S750).

[0136] In the spent activated carbon input step (S710), spent activated carbon (130) with adsorbed volatile organic compounds can be input into the moving space (560) of the desorber (210).

[0137] In the indirect heating step (S720), the spent activated carbon (130) can be preheated by indirectly heating it through steam flowing along the indirect heating steam tube (561) located inside the desorber (210). By doing so, the heating rate of the spent activated carbon, which has low thermal conductivity, can be increased, thereby shortening the process time and simplifying the process.

[0138] Here, the indirect heating steam flowing along the indirect heating steam tube (561) can be controlled to 100 to 200°C.

[0139] In the desorption step (S730), superheated steam is supplied to an intake pipe (520) connected to one side of the moving space (560) of the desorber (210), and volatile organic compounds can be desorbed from the spent activated carbon (130).

[0140] Here, the temperature of the superheated steam supplied to the intake pipe (520) can be controlled to 250 to 400°C for effective desorption of the spent activated carbon (130).

[0141] Meanwhile, the desorption step (S730) may include a superheated steam injection step (not shown) in which superheated steam is injected in the downward direction of the desorption unit (210) through a circular superheated steam tube (521) located at the bottom of the desorption unit (210).

[0142] Since the superheated steam is injected downwards and flows upwards into the desorber (210), the contact time between the superheated steam and the spent activated carbon (130) is increased, allowing for sufficient desorption of the spent activated carbon (130). Additionally, since the superheated steam is injected downwards and flows upwards into the desorber (210), there may be less obstruction to the movement path of the spent activated carbon (130) compared to when the superheated steam is directly injected upwards into the desorber (210).

[0143] Meanwhile, the structure of the moving space (560) is formed so that the spent activated carbon (130) moves from the upper side to the lower side by gravity in the moving space (560), and the spent activated carbon (130) can stay in the moving space (560) for 30 to 60 minutes.

[0144] In the discharge step (S740), a mixed fluid in which volatile organic compounds desorbed by superheated steam and superheated steam are mixed is discharged through an exhaust pipe (550) connected to the other side of the moving space (560), and at the same time, reusable activated carbon (140) from which volatile organic compounds have been desorbed can be discharged through a discharge port (540).

[0145] Meanwhile, the flow rate of the waste activated carbon (130) flowing into the desorber (210) and the activated carbon (140) discharged from the desorber (210) can be controlled through a rotary valve (not shown).

[0146] A discharge cap (590) may be placed at the bottom of the discharge port (540) to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon (130) located in the center of the moving space (560) so that the residence time of the spent activated carbon (130) moving in the moving space (560) is uniform.

[0147] In the synthesis gas generation step (S750), volatile organic compounds and steam can be reacted in the reforming reactor of the reformer (220) connected to the exhaust pipe (550) to generate synthesis gas.

[0148] As described above, according to the present embodiment, spent activated carbon can be regenerated with high energy efficiency. Furthermore, according to the present embodiment, synthesis gas can be reformed while regenerating spent activated carbon through a simplified process.

[0149] Terms such as "include," "compose," or "have" as described above, unless specifically stated otherwise, mean that the relevant component may be inherent; therefore, they should be interpreted as allowing for the inclusion of additional components rather than excluding them. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, unless otherwise defined. Commonly used terms, such as those defined in advance, should be interpreted in accordance with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

[0150] The foregoing description is merely an illustrative explanation of the technical concept of the present invention, and those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations within the scope of the essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are intended to explain, not limit, the technical concept of the present invention, and the scope of the technical concept of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention shall be interpreted by the claims below, and all technical concepts within an equivalent scope shall be interpreted as being included within the scope of rights of the present invention. Explanation of the symbols

[0151] 100: Activated Carbon Circulation System 110: Spent Activated Carbon Regeneration Device 120: VOCs adsorption device 130: Spent activated carbon 140: Activated carbon 210: Remover 220: Reformer 230: Connecting device 310: Cyclone 320: Input piping 330: Output piping 340: Pressure reducing device 410: Generator 510: Detachable top 520: Intake pipe 521: Superheated steam tube 522: Bracket 530: Input 540: Discharge port 550: Exhaust pipe 560: Movement space 561: Steam tube for indirect heating 570: Inclined plate 581: Second path 582: Path 1 583: Third path 590: Dispensing cap 610: Steam generator 620: Superheater S700: Spent Activated Carbon Regeneration Method S710: Spent activated carbon input step S720: Indirect heating stage S730: Detachment step S740: Discharge stage S750: Syngas generation stage

Claims

Claim 1 A desorber that provides a moving space for the movement of spent activated carbon adsorbed with volatile organic compounds, indirectly heats the spent activated carbon through indirect heating steam flowing along an indirect heating steam tube located inside the desorber, supplies superheated steam to an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space, and discharges a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space; A spent activated carbon regeneration device comprising: a reformer that generates synthesis gas from the volatile organic compound and the superheated steam, wherein the reformer is connected to the exhaust pipe and the superheated steam flows continuously between the moving space and the reformer and is used for both desorption and reforming of the volatile organic compound; wherein the desorption device includes an inlet for receiving spent activated carbon and a discharge port for discharging reusable activated carbon, and a discharge cap is disposed on the discharge port side to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon located at the center of the moving space so that the residence time of the spent activated carbon moving in the moving space is uniform. Claim 2 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to claim 1, further comprising a pressure reducing device located between the reforming reactor and the exhaust pipe to prevent fluid flowing in the moving space from leaking to the outside. Claim 3 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to claim 1, wherein the superheated steam is generated from a steam generator and heated through a superheater to be controlled to 250 to 400°C. Claim 4 In claim 1, the indirect heating steam is generated from a steam generator and controlled to 100 to 200°C, a spent activated carbon regeneration device. Claim 5 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to claim 1, wherein the superheated steam and the spent activated carbon are supplied to the desorber such that the following equation (1) is satisfied. Equation (1): 2 ≤ S / C ≤ 4 (wherein S is superheated steam and C is carbon contained in the spent activated carbon on which volatile organic compounds are adsorbed) Claim 6 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to claim 1, wherein the superheated steam supplied through the intake pipe is injected into the moving space through a circular superheated steam tube located at the bottom of the desorber, the superheated steam is injected in the direction of the bottom of the desorber, and flows in the moving space in the opposite direction to the movement path of the spent activated carbon and is discharged in the direction of the top of the desorber. Claim 7 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to claim 1, wherein the steam tube for indirect heating is in the shape of a spiral coil. Claim 8 A spent activated carbon regeneration device according to paragraph 2, wherein a cyclone is further disposed between the exhaust pipe and the pressure reducing device, and as the fluid passes through the cyclone by the vapor pressure of the superheated steam, dust contained in the fluid is separated from the cyclone and discharged. Claim 9 delete Claim 10 A spent activated carbon input step of introducing spent activated carbon adsorbed with volatile organic compounds into a moving space; an indirect heating step of indirectly heating the spent activated carbon through indirect heating steam flowing along an indirect heating steam tube located inside a desorber; a desorption step of desorbing the volatile organic compounds from the spent activated carbon by supplying superheated steam through an intake pipe connected to one side of the moving space; and a discharge step in which a fluid mixed with the volatile organic compounds desorbed by the superheated steam and the superheated steam is discharged through an exhaust pipe connected to the other side of the moving space, and the reusable activated carbon from which the volatile organic compounds have been desorbed is discharged through a discharge port. A method for regenerating spent activated carbon, comprising: a synthesis gas generation step in which the volatile organic compound and the steam react to generate synthesis gas in a reforming reactor connected to the exhaust pipe; wherein a discharge cap is disposed at the bottom of the discharge port to slow down the discharge speed of the spent activated carbon located at the center of the moving space so that the residence time of the spent activated carbon moving in the moving space is uniform. Claim 11 ◈Claim 11 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ A method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to Claim 10, wherein the indirect heating steam flowing along the indirect heating steam tube is controlled to 100 to 200℃. Claim 12 ◈Claim 12 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ A method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to Claim 10, wherein the temperature of the superheated steam supplied to the intake pipe is controlled to 250 to 400℃. Claim 13 ◈Claim 13 was abandoned upon payment of the registration fee.◈ A method for regenerating spent activated carbon, wherein the desorption step of claim 10 comprises a superheated steam injection step in which the superheated steam is injected toward the lower direction of the desorption device through a circular superheated steam tube located at the lower part of the desorption device. Claim 14 A method for regenerating spent activated carbon according to claim 10, wherein the structure of the moving space is formed so that the spent activated carbon moves from the upper side to the lower side by gravity in the moving space, and the spent activated carbon stays in the moving space for 30 to 60 minutes. Claim 15 delete

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