Enhanced VOC Oxidation
EPA Contract Number: 68D02012Title: Enhanced VOC Oxidation
Investigators: Nemser, Stuart
Small Business: Compact Membrane Systems Inc.
EPA Contact: Richards, April
Phase: I
Project Period: April 1, 2002 through September 1, 2002
Project Amount: $70,000
RFA: Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) - Phase I (2002) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: Air Quality and Air Toxics , SBIR - Air Pollution , Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
Description:
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) continue to be major air pollutants. Existing technologies (e.g., thermal oxidation, catalytic oxidation) are costly processes that limit their commercial viability. Compact Membrane Systems, Inc. (CMS) proposes a novel enhanced VOC oxidation process. CMS' novel oxidation technique should require less maintenance, consume less fuel, and reduce NOx emissions compared to existing techniques.In Phase I, CMS will fabricate a laboratory system and demonstrate its viability for removing both aliphatic and aromatic VOCs. In addition, CMS will demonstrate the laboratory system's ruggedness. Performance as measured by enhanced oxidation and ruggedness will be compared to controls (e.g., catalytic oxidation).
The commercial opportunity is large. Currently, there are many VOC oxidation systems in use, and if cost-performance could be enhanced consistent with this project, many other opportunities would develop. Opportunities include not only VOC removal, but also other more selective oxidation opportunities.
CMS has existing developmental relationships with major industrial partners. These partners provide value for helping facilitate the Small Business Innovation Research Program and subsequent commercial developments.