Processes For Filtering Chemicals From Air Streams

Abstract

The present invention provides processes for filtering undesired chemicals in streams of contaminated air for supply to confined areas. The processes provide (1) contacting air with a filter comprising by volume from about 5% to about 95% impregnated zirconium hydroxide, from about 5% to about 95% activated impregnated carbon, and optionally, up to about 50% ammonia removal material; and (2) supplying the contacted air to a confined area.

Claims

1. A process for filtering undesired chemicals in a stream of contaminated air for supply to a confined area, the process comprising (1) contacting the air with a filter, the filter comprising by volume from about 5% to about 95% impregnated zirconium hydroxide, from about 5% to about 95% activated impregnated carbon, and optionally, up to about 50% ammonia removal material; and (2) supplying the contacted air to the confined area.

2. A process according to claim 1, wherein the air is humid air.

3. A process according to claim 1, wherein the chemicals are selected from the group consisting of SO.sub.2, DMMP, HCN, NH.sub.3, NO.sub.2, CH.sub.2O and H.sub.2S.

4. A process according to claim 1, wherein the step of contacting the air with a filter comprises contacting the air with a radial flow filter.

5. A process according to claim 1, wherein the contacting step comprises contacting the air with a filter bed comprising an inlet layer of zirconium hydroxide, an outlet layer of activated impregnated carbon, and optionally a middle layer of ammonia removal material.

6. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with Zn, Co, Ag and triethylene diamine.

7. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with 6% by weight triethylene diamine.

8. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is loaded with about 17% Zn, about 3% Co, and about 0.3% Ag by weight.

9. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is loaded with about 17% Zn, about 3% Co, 0.3% Ag and about 6% triethylene diamine by weight.

10. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with oxides, hydroxides, carbonates or ammonium complexes of a metal selected from the group consisting of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver, and gold.

11. A process according to claim 1, wherein the activated carbon is impregnated with at least two of Cu, Zn, Mo, Ag, and triethylene diamine.

12. A process according to claim 1, wherein the activated carbon is impregnated with about 4% Cu, about 4% Zn, about 2% Mo, about 0.05% Ag and about 3% triethylene diamine by weight.

13. A process according to claim 1, wherein the activated carbon is impregnated with oxides, hydroxides, carbonates or ammonium complexes of a metal selected from the group consisting of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver and gold.

14. A process according to claim 1, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is loaded with about 17% Zn, about 3% Co, 0.3% Ag and about 6% triethylene diamine by volume, and the activated carbon is impregnated with about 4% Cu, about 4% Zn, about 2% Mo, about 0.05% Ag and about 3% triethylene diamine by weight.

15. A process according to claim 1, wherein the ammonia removal material is impregnated with an acid.

16. A process according to claim 15, wherein the acid selected from the group consisting of HCl, H.sub.2SO.sub.4, citric acid, and formic acid.

17. A process according to claim 1, wherein the ammonia removal material comprises a porous substrate selected from the group of substrates consisting of activated carbon, aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide, titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide and zirconium hydroxide.

18. A process according to claim 1, wherein the ammonia removal material comprises a porous substrate impregnated with one of the group consisting of chlorides, sulfates and nitrates of a metal selected from the group of metals consisting of iron, zinc, copper and nickel.

19. A process according to claim 1, wherein the chemicals are selected from the group consisting of chlorine gas, phosgene, cyanogen chloride, mustard (bis(2-chloroethyl) sulfide, sarin and O-ethyl S-[2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl] methylphosphonothioate.

20. A process according to claim 2, wherein the humid air contacted with the filter has a relative humidity of at least about 15%.

21. A process according to claim 1, wherein the ammonia removal comprises activated carbon impregnated with zinc chloride.

22. A process according to claim 1, wherein the contacting step comprises contacting the air with the filter having a zirconium hydroxide inlet.

23. A process according to claim 1, wherein the contacting step comprises contacting the air with the filter having an activated impregnated carbon outlet.

24. A process according to claim 1, wherein the contacting step comprises contacting the air with the filter having an ammonia removal material located between a zirconium hydroxide filter inlet and an activated impregnated carbon outlet layer.

25. A process according to claim 1, wherein the contacting the air with the filter step comprises a filter having a zirconium hydroxide inlet layer, an ammonia removal material middle layer comprising a substrate impregnated with an acid, and an activated impregnated carbon outlet layer.

26. A process according to claim 1, wherein the filter is integrated into a HEPA filter.

27. A process according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a radial flow filter wherein the impregnated zirconium hydroxide and the impregnated activated carbon are immobilized in webbing.

28. A process according to claim 1, wherein the filter comprises a filter bed.

29. A process according to claim 4, wherein the radial flow filter comprises a media-loaded polymeric webbing.

30. A process for filtering undesired chemicals in a stream of contaminated humid air for supply to a confined area, the process comprising contacting the air with a radial flow filter before supplying the air to the confined area, the radial flow filter comprising up to about 48% by volume impregnated zirconium hydroxide, the zirconium hydroxide impregnated with zinc, and up to about 67% by volume impregnated activated carbon, the activated carbon impregnated with zinc, wherein both the zirconium hydroxide and the activated carbon are immobilized in a polymeric webbing of the radial flow filter.

31. A process according to claim 30, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is further impregnated with Co and Ag.

32. A process according to claim 30, wherein the activated carbon is further impregnated with Cu and Mo.

33. A process according to claim 30, wherein the zirconium hydroxide and the activated carbon are both further impregnated with triethylene diamine.

34. A process according to claim 30, wherein the activated carbon is further impregnated with Ag.

35. A process according to claim 30, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with about 17% Zn, about 3% Co, about 13% Ag, and about 6% triethylene diamine by weight, and the activated carbon is impregnated with about 4% Cu, about 4% Zn, about 2% Mo, and about 3% triethylene diamine by weight.

36. A process according to claim 30, wherein the zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with about 6% by weight triethylene diamine, and the activated carbon is impregnated with about 3% by weight triethylene diamine.

37. A process according to claim 30, wherein the humid air has a relative humidity of at least about 15%.

38. A process according to claim 30, wherein the chemicals are selected from the group of chemicals consisting of SO.sub.2, DMMP, HCN, NH.sub.3, NO.sub.2, CH.sub.2O and H.sub.2S.

39. A process of claim 30, wherein the filter comprises about 33% impregnated zirconium hydroxide and about 67% impregnated activated carbon by volume.

40. A process of claim 30, wherein the filter comprises about 48% impregnated zirconium hydroxide and about 52% impregnated activated carbon by volume.

41. A process for the filtering undesired chemicals in a stream of contaminated humid air before being supplied to a confined area, the process comprising (1) contacting the air with a layered filter bed having an inlet layer, the inlet layer comprising zirconium hydroxide impregnated with zinc, (2) contacting the air with a middle layer of the layered filter bed comprising a substrate impregnated with an acid, and (3) contacting the air with an outlet layer of the layered filter bed, the outlet layer comprising activated carbon impregnated with triethylene diamine, (4) supplying the contacted air to the confined area, wherein the bed is comprised of about 20% by volume inlet layer, about 20% by volume middle layer, and about 60% by volume outlet layer.

42. A process according to claim 41, wherein the air is humid.

43. A process according to claim 41, wherein the undesired chemicals are selected from the group consisting of SO.sub.2, DMMP, HCN, NH.sub.3, NO.sub.2, CH.sub.2O and H.sub.2S.

44. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of impregnated zirconium hydroxide is loaded with about 17% Zn, about 3% Co, about 0.3% Ag and about 6% triethylene diamine by weight.

45. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of zirconium hydroxide is further impregnated with Ag.

46. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of zirconium hydroxide is further impregnated with Co.

47. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of zirconium hydroxide is further impregnated with triethylene diamine.

48. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of impregnated zirconium hydroxide is loaded with Co, Ag, and triethylene diamine.

49. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of impregnated zirconium hydroxide is loaded with about 17% Zn and about 3% Co by weight.

50. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of zirconium hydroxide is impregnated with oxides, hydroxides, carbonates or ammonium complexes of a metal selected from the group consisting of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver, and gold.

51. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of carbon is impregnated with at least two of Cu, Zn, Mo, and Ag.

52. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of activated carbon is impregnated with about 4% about Cu, about 4% Zn, about 2% Mo, and about 3% triethylene diamine by weight.

53. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of activated carbon is impregnated with oxides, hydroxides, carbonates or ammonium complexes of a metal selected from the group consisting of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver and gold.

54. A process according to claim 41, wherein the layer of carbon is further impregnated with silver, gold and mixtures thereof.

55. A process according to claim 41, wherein the middle layer comprises a porous substrate impregnated with an acid selected from the group of acids consisting of HCl, H.sub.2SO.sub.4, citric acid, and formic acid.

56. A process according to claim 41, wherein the middle layer comprises a porous substrate impregnated with an acid selected from the group consisting of HCl, H.sub.2SO.sub.4, citric acid, and formic acid.

57. A process according to claim 41, wherein the middle layer comprises a porous substrate selected from the group of substrates consisting of activated carbon, aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide, titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide and zirconium hydroxide.

58. A process according to claim 41, wherein the middle layer comprises a porous substrate impregnated with one of the group consisting of chlorides, sulfates and nitrates of a metal selected from the group of metals consisting of iron, zinc, copper and nickel.

59. A process according to claim 41, wherein the chemicals are selected from the group consisting of chlorine gas, phosgene, cyanogen chloride, mustard (bis(2-chloroethyl) sulfide, sarin and O-ethyl S-[2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl] methylphosphonothioate.

60. A process according to claim 42, wherein the humid air contacted with the filter has a relative humidity of at least about 15%.

61. A process according to claim 41, wherein the contacting step comprises contacting the air with the filter, wherein the middle layer of the filter comprises an ammonia removal material.

62. A process according to claim 41, wherein the filter is integrated into a HEPA filter.

63. A process according to claim 41, wherein the impregnated zirconium hydroxide, the substrate impregnated with acid, and the impregnated activated carbon are immobilized in a polymeric webbing.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTIONS

[0018] The present invention relates to processes for removing traditional CW agents and TICs from streams of air that offers extended service life and enhanced chemical protection capabilities. As used herein, “activated carbon” is defined as a form of carbon processed in a manner as to have small pores that provide the surface area necessary for adsorption of chemical vapors. Activated carbon is also referred to as active carbon or activated charcoal. As used herein, “activated, impregnated carbon” is defined as activated carbon containing impregnants added for the purpose of promoting adsorption or chemical reaction. Examples of impregnants include but are not limited to oxides, hydroxides, carbonates, ammonium complexes, etc. of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver and gold, and mixtures thereof. Impregnants are not limited to metal complexes but may also include pure metals, such as silver and gold, and organic complexes, such as diethylene triamine and triethylene diamine (TEDA). Organic impregnants may be combined with metal impregnants.

[0019] As used herein, “zirconium hydroxide” is defined as a two dimensional zirconium oxyhydroxide array comprised of bridging oxygen and terminal hydroxyl groups. As used herein, “impregnated zirconium hydroxide” is defined as zirconium hydroxide containing impregnants, e.g., added for the purpose of promoting adsorption or chemical reaction. Examples of impregnants include oxides, hydroxides, carbonates, ammonium complexes, etc. of vanadium, chromium, manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, molybdenum, tungsten, silver and gold, and mixtures thereof. Impregnants are not limited to metal complexes but may also include metals, such as silver and gold, and organic complexes, such as diethylene triamine and triethylene diamine (TEDA). Organic impregnants may be combined with metal impregnants.

[0020] As used herein, an “ammonia removal material” is defined as a filtration material that targets the removal of ammonia and other amines (e.g., monomethyl amine). One example of an ammonia removal material may include a porous substrate impregnated with acids (e.g., HCl, H.sub.2SO.sub.4, citric acid, and formic acid). Examples of porous substrates may include activated carbon, aluminum oxide, aluminum hydroxide (also referred to as pseudoboehmite), titanium dioxide, zirconium oxide and zirconium hydroxide. Another example of an ammonia removal material may include a porous substrate impregnated with chlorides, sulfates and/or nitrates of iron, zinc, copper, nickel, or mixtures thereof.

[0021] Conventional CP filters contain activated impregnated carbon, such as ASZM-T. While effective in its ability to remove traditional CW agents, these filters provide insufficient protection versus TICs, examples of which include fuming nitric acid, nitrogen dioxide, ammonia, formaldehyde and sulfur dioxide. Further, activated, impregnated carbon, such as ASZM-T, is known by one of ordinary skill in the art to deactivate during periods of exposure to humid air and is highly susceptible to deactivation from exposure to humid air containing airborne contaminants.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the layered bed filter configuration of the present invention, impregnated zirconium hydroxide is employed to provide enhanced chemical removal capability versus TICs that are not effectively removed by activated, impregnated carbon. According to another embodiment, impregnated zirconium hydroxide may be employed to enhance the durability (lifetime) of the filter bed. According to an embodiment, activated carbon and/or activated, impregnated carbon are employed to provide physical adsorption capacity (as would be required for the removal of persistent CW agents). Optionally, and according to a further embodiment, an ammonia removal material may be incorporated to provide amine (e.g., ammonia, methyl amine) removal capability.

[0023] Impregnated zirconium hydroxide may be significantly more durable than activated, impregnated carbon due to the material being prepared by precipitation, rather than by impregnation as per activated, impregnated carbon. As a result, the metal impregnants may not migrate from within the pores of the granules to the external surface during periods of prolonged humid exposure or when saturated with water. Consequently, the zirconium hydroxide-based filtration media may not lose filtration performance following saturation with water or following periods of humid exposure. Secondly, the zirconium hydroxide-based filtration media may have a significantly greater filtration capacity for acid gases than does activated, impregnated carbon. As a result, the zirconium hydroxide-based filtration media may have a significantly longer useful life-time when exposed to airborne contaminants, e.g., such as SO.sub.x and NO.sub.x. Lastly, the impregnated zirconium hydroxide may be mesoporous, versus the microporous activated, impregnated carbon. Due to the mesoporous nature of the impregnated zirconium hydroxide, the material may not strongly adsorb organic vapors that may be strongly adsorbed and retained by activated, impregnated carbon. As a result, impregnated zirconium hydroxide may have a significantly longer useful life time when exposed to organic vapors present in the air, such as fuel vapors and solvents etc.

[0024] The novel processes involve contacting an ambient air stream with filtration media located within a filter, preferably a filter bed, whereby between about 10% and about 90% of the filter volume is occupied by the impregnated zirconium hydroxide. The remainder of the filter, e.g., bed, may be occupied by activated, impregnated carbon or not impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof. Optionally, an ammonia removal media may also be included in the filter.

[0025] The contact time between the air stream and the media bed will depend upon the nature of the chemical challenge and ambient environment. The contact time can be as little as about 0.05 seconds and as equal to or greater than about 1 second. It is preferred that the contact time be less than about 0.3 seconds and more preferably less than about 0.2 seconds.

[0026] The filtration media may be of any suitable geometric form, such as for example beads, extrudates or granules. The filtration media may be contained in a device that may promote contact between the media and the air stream. The device may include a packed bed, an annular bed such as a radial flow configuration, or alternatively, the media may be immobilized in webbing, e.g., polymeric webbing. Should it be desired to immobilize the media in polymeric webbing, the webbing may be formed into a filter element of the desired geometric form. Said geometric form may include a flat plate, a pleated configuration, an annular bed (radial flow) design, or any desired form.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the layered bed filter configuration of the novel processes may take many forms. The form of the configuration may be dependent upon the target level of chemical protection, the desired filter life and the nature of the anticipated chemical exposure. Examples of some suitable configurations are presented below: [0028] 1. Activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof at the filter inlet (5-90% filter volume), followed by impregnated zirconium hydroxide (10-95% of filter volume), followed by ammonia removal material (0-50% filter volume) at the filter outlet. [0029] 2. Impregnated zirconium hydroxide at the filter inlet (10-95% of filter volume) followed by activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof, (5-90% filter volume), followed by ammonia removal material (0-50% filter volume) at the filter outlet. [0030] 3. Activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof at the filter inlet (5-90% filter volume), followed by ammonia removal material (0-50% of filter volume), followed by impregnated zirconium hydroxide at the filter outlet (10-95% of filter volume). [0031] 4. Impregnated zirconium hydroxide at the filter inlet (10-95% of filter volume), followed by ammonia removal material (0-50% filter volume), followed by activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof, (5-90% filter volume), at the filter outlet. [0032] 5. Ammonia removal material (0-50% filter volume) at the filter inlet followed by activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof, (5-90% filter volume), followed by impregnated zirconium hydroxide (10-95% of filter volume) at the filter outlet. [0033] 6. Ammonia removal material (0-50% filter volume) at the filter inlet, followed by impregnated zirconium hydroxide (10-95% of filter volume) followed by activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon, and/or mixtures thereof, (5-90% filter volume) at the filter outlet.

[0034] The above filter configurations are provided to serve as a guide. Filter configurations comprised of alternating layers of media may also be employed.

[0035] According to one preferred embodiment, an impregnated zirconium hydroxide layer may be located at the inlet of the filter should NO.sub.2 or fuming nitric acid protection be desired. This may be desirable because exposure of activated carbon or activated, impregnated carbon to NO.sub.2 and/or fuming nitric acid may result in the formation of toxic NO, which may rapidly pass through the filter. According to anther embodiment, it may also be preferred that the ammonia removal media, if employed, be located after the impregnated zirconium hydroxide, e.g., impregnated zirconium hydroxide immobilized in webbing.

[0036] It may be desired to immobilize filtration media, such as those described herein, in polymeric webbing, which may be comprised of low-melt fibers, structural fibers, or mixtures thereof. The fibers may be comprised of polyesters, polyacetates, etc. whereby the fibers are heat treated to immobilize the webbing. Immobilizing the filtration media in webbing may allow for the manufacture of thin layers of media, greatly increasing the ease in which layered bed filter preparation. Media may be immobilized in webbing with layers less than about 2 mm thick.

EXAMPLES

Example 1: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—SO.SUB.2 .(Comparative)

[0037] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove SO.sub.2 from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2) was 19.5 minutes.

[0038] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the diesel-exposed AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time was 19.5 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each diesel exposure, the SO.sub.2 breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the SO.sub.2 breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00001 Diesel Exposure Duration SO.sub.2 Breakthrough Time Unexposed 19.5 min  9 hours 19.5 min 18 hours 16.0 min 27 hours 14.0 min 36 hours 10.5 min 45 hours  9.0 min

[0039] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time decreased to 16.5 minutes. The contaminant exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the SO.sub.2 breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the SO.sub.2 breakthrough times as a function of the exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00002 Contaminant Exposure Duration SO.sub.2 Breakthrough Time Unexposed 19.5 min  9 hours 16.5 min 18 hours 11.0 min 27 hours 6.0 min 36 hours 3.0 min 45 hours 1.5 min

[0040] Results demonstrate that while AIC-T is able to effectively filter SO.sub.2, the SO.sub.2 filtration capabilities will significantly degrade following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 2: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—H.SUB.2.S (Comparative)

[0041] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove H.sub.2S from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 7 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S) was 28.0 minutes.

[0042] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the diesel-exposed AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time remained unaffected at 26.0 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each diesel exposure, the SO.sub.2 breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the H.sub.2S breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00003 Diesel Exposure Duration H.sub.2S Breakthrough Time Unexposed 26.0 min  9 hours 26.0 min 18 hours 24.0 min 27 hours 22.0 min 36 hours 15.0 min 45 hours 12.0 min

[0043] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time decreased to 23.0 minutes. The exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the H.sub.2S breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the H.sub.2S breakthrough times as a function of the exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00004 Contaminant Exposure Duration H.sub.2S Breakthrough Time Unexposed 26.0 min  9 hours 23.0 min 18 hours 18.0 min 27 hours 11.0 min 36 hours  6.0 min 45 hours  3.0 min

[0044] Results demonstrate that while AIC-T is able to effectively filter H.sub.2S, the H.sub.2S filtration capabilities will significantly degrade following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 3: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—DMMP (comparative)

[0045] DMMP is used in filter testing to simulate nerve agent. The simulant DMMP is used because it is far less toxic than a nerve agent. An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove dimethyl methyl phosphonate (DMMP) from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 0.25 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP) was 160 minutes.

[0046] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the diesel-exposed AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time decreased to 125 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each diesel exposure, the DMMP breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the DMMP breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00005 Diesel Exposure Duration DMMP Breakthrough Time Unexposed 160 min  9 hours 125 min 18 hours 103 min 27 hours 60 min 36 hours 52 min 45 hours 34 min

[0047] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time decreased to 116 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed of AIC-T for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the DMMP breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the DMMP breakthrough times as a function of the exposure duration.

TABLE-US-00006 Contaminant Exposure Duration DMMP Breakthrough Time Unexposed 160 min   9 hours 116 min  18 hours 94 min 27 hours 63 min 36 hours 52 min 45 hours 32 min

[0048] Results demonstrate that while AIC-T is able to effectively filter DMMP, the DMMP filtration capabilities will significantly degrade following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 4: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—HCN (comparative)

[0049] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove hydrogen cyanide (HCN) from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 80% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 HCN in 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 8 mg/m.sup.3 HCN or product cyanogen, C.sub.2N.sub.2) was 16.5 minutes, with breakthrough occurring as C.sub.2N.sub.2, followed by HCN shortly afterwards.

[0050] A bed of 12×30 mesh AIC-T was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 45 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 80% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 HCN in 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The HCN breakthrough time decreased to less than 2 minutes.

Example 5: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—NH.SUB.3 .(Comparative)

[0051] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove ammonia (NH.sub.3) from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,000 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The NH.sub.3 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 35 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3) was 4 minutes.

[0052] Results demonstrate that AIC-T is unable to effectively filter NH.sub.3.

Example 6: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—NO.SUB.2 .(Comparative)

[0053] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove nitrogen dioxide (NO.sub.2) from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 375 mg/m.sup.3 NO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. Breakthrough occurred as NO, rather than NO.sub.2. The NO breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 25 mg/m.sup.3 NO) was 2 minutes.

[0054] Results demonstrate that AIC-T is unable to effectively filter NO.sub.2.

Example 7: Performance of Activated, Impregnated Carbon—CH.SUB.2.O (Comparative)

[0055] An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove formaldehyde (CH.sub.2O) from streams of air. A bed of AIC-T was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,200 mg/m.sup.3 CH.sub.2O in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The CH.sub.2O breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 1.5 mg/m.sup.3) was 22 minutes.

[0056] Results demonstrate that AIC-T is marginal in its ability to filter formaldehyde.

Example 8: Performance of Layered Bed—SO.SUB.2

[0057] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove SO.sub.2. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove SO.sub.2 from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2) was 22.5 minutes.

[0058] The layered bed described above was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media within the bed. Following equilibration, the diesel-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time decreased to 20 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh layered bed for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each diesel exposure, the SO.sub.2 breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the SO.sub.2 breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 1).

TABLE-US-00007 Diesel Exposure SO.sub.2 Breakthrough SO.sub.2 Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 19.5 min 22.5 min  9 hours 19.5 min 20.0 min 18 hours 16.0 min 19.0 min 27 hours 14.0 min 17.5 min 36 hours 10.5 min 15.5 min 45 hours  9.0 min 15.0 min

[0059] The layered bed described previously in this example was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time decreased to 18.5 minutes. The exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the SO.sub.2 breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the SO.sub.2 breakthrough times as a function of the exposure duration. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 1).

TABLE-US-00008 Contaminant Exposure SO.sub.2 Breakthrough SO.sub.2 Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 19.5 min 22.5 min  9 hours 16.5 min 18.5 min 18 hours 11.0 min 16.0 min 27 hours 6.0 min 12.5 min 36 hours 3.0 min 11.5 min 45 hours 1.5 min  7.5 min

[0060] Results demonstrate that despite the shorter residence time, the layered bed of the present example provides improved filtration performance following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 9: Performance of Layered Bed—H.SUB.2.S

[0061] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove H.sub.2S. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove H.sub.2S from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 7 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S) was 23.0 minutes.

[0062] The layered bed described above was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 45 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media within the bed. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time decreased to 15.5 minutes. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 2).

TABLE-US-00009 Diesel Exposure H.sub.2S Breakthrough H.sub.2S Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 26.0 min 23.0 min 45 hours 12.0 min 15.5 min

[0063] The layered bed described previously in this example was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time decreased to 21 minutes. The exposure was repeated as before using a fresh layered bed for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the H.sub.2S breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the H.sub.2S breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 1).

TABLE-US-00010 Contaminant Exposure H.sub.2S Breakthrough H.sub.2S Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 26.0 min 23.0 min  9 hours 25.0 min 21.0 min 18 hours 18.0 min 17.0 min 27 hours 11.0 min 14.0 min 36 hours  6.0 min 11.0 min 45 hours  3.0 min  8.5 min

[0064] Results demonstrate that despite the shorter residence time, the layered bed of the present example provides improved filtration performance following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 10: Performance of Layered Bed—DMMP

[0065] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by volume) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove DMMP. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove H.sub.2S from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 0.25 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP) was 100 minutes.

[0066] The layered bed described above was exposed to 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors in flowing 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media within the bed. Following equilibration, the diesel-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time decreased to 60 minutes. The diesel exposure was repeated as before using a fresh bed for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each diesel exposure, the DMMP breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the DMMP breakthrough times as a function of the diesel exposure duration. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 3).

TABLE-US-00011 Diesel Exposure DMMP Breakthrough DMMP Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 160 min 100 min   9 hours 125 min 60 min 18 hours 103 min 49 min 27 hours 60 min 43 min 36 hours 52 min 43 min 45 hours 34 min 40 min

[0067] The layered bed described previously in this example was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 9 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The DMMP breakthrough time decreased to 66 minutes. The exposure was repeated as before using a fresh layered bed for contact times of 18, 27, 36 and 45 hours. Upon completion of each exposure, the DMMP breakthrough curve was again recorded. The table below reports the DMMP breakthrough time as a function of the diesel exposure duration. Results corresponding to a bed of AIC-T evaluated at a residence time of 0.21 seconds are shown for comparative purposes (from Example 3).

TABLE-US-00012 Contaminant Exposure DMMP Breakthrough DMMP Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 160 min  100 min   9 hours 116 min  66 min 18 hours 94 min 49 min 27 hours 63 min 43 min 36 hours 52 min 40 min 45 hours 32 min 37 min

[0068] Although the layered bed provides a lower initial DMMP protection capability, following an extensive exposure to airborne contaminants, the performance of the layered bed is consistent with that of the AIC-T bed, despite being operated at a shorter residence time.

Example 11: Performance of Layered Bed—HCN

[0069] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove HCN. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove HCN from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 80% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 HCN in 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The HCN breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 8 mg/m.sup.3 HCN) was 18.0 minutes.

[0070] The layered bed described previously in this example was exposed to contaminated stream comprised of 150 mg/m.sup.3 diesel fuel vapors, 20 ppm NO.sub.2 and 10 ppm SO.sub.2 in flowing, 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds for 45 hours. Upon completion of the exposure, the bed was exposed to air at 80% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the contaminant-exposed bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 HCN in 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The HCN breakthrough time decreased to 7.5 minutes.

TABLE-US-00013 Contaminant Exposure H.sub.2S Breakthrough H.sub.2S Breakthrough Duration Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed Unexposed 16.5 min 18.0 min 45 hours Less than 2.0 min  7.5 min

[0071] Results demonstrate that despite the shorter residence time, the layered bed of the present example provides improved filtration performance both initially and following exposure to airborne contaminants.

Example 12: Performance of Layered Bed—NO.SUB.2

[0072] A layered bed comprised of 27% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 73% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove NO.sub.2. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove NO.sub.2 from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 80% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 375 mg/m.sup.3 NO.sub.2 in 80% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. Breakthrough occurred as NO, rather than NO.sub.2. The NO breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 25 mg/m.sup.3 NO) was 80 minutes, significantly greater than the 2 minute breakthrough time as reported in Example 5.

Example 13: Performance of Layered Bed—NH.SUB.3

[0073] A layered bed comprised of 27% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 73% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3 from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,000 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The NH.sub.3 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 35 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3) was 12 minutes.

Example 14: Performance of Layered Bed—CH.SUB.2.O

[0074] A layered bed comprised of 27% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 73% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was evaluated for its ability to remove formaldehyde (CH.sub.2O). Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 3 hours at a residence time of 0.16 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the layered bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,200 mg/m.sup.3 CH.sub.2O in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.16 seconds. The CH.sub.2O breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 1.5 mg/m.sup.3) was 38 minutes.

[0075] Results demonstrate that the layered bed is able to effectively filter formaldehyde.

Example 15: Water Saturation Effects—SO.SUB.2

[0076] Filter beds were saturated with water to simulate the effects of moisture, such as dew, rain, etc., contacting the filter bed. An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, and 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. A bed of AIC-T was saturated with DI water to incipient wetness, then allowed to stand for 72 hours. Upon completion, the bed was exposed to 15% RH flowing air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 16 hours to dry and equilibrate the bed. Upon completion, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2) was 9.0 minutes.

[0077] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was prepared for testing. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The bed was saturated with DI water to incipient wetness, then allowed to stand for 72 hours. Upon completion, the bed was exposed to 15% RH flowing air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 16 hours to dry and equilibrate the bed. Upon completion, the layered bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2) was 15.5 minutes.

TABLE-US-00014 SO.sub.2 Breakthrough SO.sub.2 Breakthrough Bed Condition Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed As-prepared 19.5 min 22.5 min Water Saturated 10.0 min 15.5 min

Example 16: Water Saturation Effects—H.SUB.2.S

[0078] Filter beds were saturated with water to simulate the effects of moisture, such as dew, rain, etc., contacting the filter bed. An activated carbon impregnated with 4% Cu, 4% Zn, 2% Mo, and 0.05% Ag by weight and 3% triethylene diamine (TEDA) by weight was obtained from a commercial vendor as 12×30 mesh granules. The material is referred to as AIC-T. A bed of AIC-T was saturated with DI water to incipient wetness, then allowed to stand for 72 hours. Upon completion, the bed was exposed to 15% RH flowing air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 16 hours to dry and equilibrate the bed. Upon completion, the AIC-T bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 7 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S) was 9.0 minutes.

[0079] A layered bed comprised of 33% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, and 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight) and 67% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T was prepared for testing. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The bed was saturated with DI water to incipient wetness, then allowed to stand for 72 hours. Upon completion, the bed was exposed to 15% RH flowing air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds for 16 hours to dry and equilibrate the bed. Upon completion, the layered bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 4,000 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The H.sub.2S breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 H.sub.2S) was 13.5 minutes.

TABLE-US-00015 H.sub.2S Breakthrough H.sub.2S Breakthrough Bed Condition Time AIC-T Bed Time Layered Bed As-prepared 26.0 min 23.0 min Water Saturated  9.0 min 13.5 min

Example 17: Performance of Tri-Layered Bed—NH.SUB.3

[0080] A tri-layered bed comprised of 20% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight), 60% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T and 20% by volume 16×30 mesh activated carbon impregnated with 15% zinc chloride by weight was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3 from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,000 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The NH.sub.3 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 35 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3) was 22 minutes.

[0081] A tri-layered bed comprised of 20% by volume 16×30 mesh Co-ZZAT (zirconium hydroxide loaded with 17% Zn, 3% Co, 0.3% Ag by weight and impregnated with 6% TEDA by weight), 60% by volume 12×30 mesh AIC-T and 20% by volume 16×30 mesh zirconium hydroxide impregnated with 40% zinc chloride by weight was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3. Co-ZZAT was located at the bed inlet, and AIC-T was located at the bed outlet. The layered bed was evaluated for its ability to remove NH.sub.3 from streams of air. The bed was exposed to air at 15% relative humidity (RH) for 1 hour at a residence time of 0.21 seconds to equilibrate the media. Following equilibration, the bed was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,000 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3 in 15% RH air at a residence time of 0.21 seconds. The NH.sub.3 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 35 mg/m.sup.3 NH.sub.3) was 34 minutes.

[0082] Results demonstrate that adding a layer of ammonia removal material at the outlet of the bed yields greatly improves the NH.sub.3 removal capability.

Example 18: Radial Flow Filter—SO.SUB.2

[0083] A radial flow filter was prepared using Co-ZZAT and AIC-T immobilized in polyester webbing. The outside diameter of the filter was 20.5 inches and the inside diameter of the filter was 11.9 inches. The filter was 10.2 inches long. The filter contained 12.7 lbs of Co-ZZAT and 13.8 lbs of AIC-T carbon. The webbing used in the manufacture of the filter contained 110 g/ft.sup.2 Co-ZZAT and 70 g/ft.sup.2 AIC-T carbon. The filter was challenged with 200 scfm of air with a RH of 15% for approximately 1 hour in order to equilibrate the filter. The pressure drop through the filter was 4.5 inches of water. Following equilibration, the filter was exposed to a process stream comprised of 1,000 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2 in 15% RH air at a flow rate of 200 SCFM. The SO.sub.2 breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 9 mg/m.sup.3 SO.sub.2) was 82 minutes.

Example 19: Radial Flow Filter—DMMP

[0084] A radial flow filter was prepared using Co-ZZAT and AIC-T immobilized in polyester webbing. The outside diameter of the filter was 20.5 inches and the inside diameter of the filter was 11.9 inches. The filter was 10.2 inches long. The filter contained 7.9 lbs of Co-ZZAT and 15.8 lbs of AIC-T carbon. The webbing used in the manufacture of the filter contained 110 g/ft.sup.2 Co-ZZAT and 70 g/ft.sup.2 AIC-T carbon. The filter was challenged with 200 scfm of air with a RH of 15% for approximately 1 hour in order to equilibrate the filter. The pressure drop through the filter was 4.5 inches of water. Following equilibration, the filter was exposed to a process stream comprised of 3,000 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP in 15% RH air at a flow rate of 200 SCFM. The DMMP breakthrough time (to an effluent concentration of 0.25 mg/m.sup.3 DMMP) was 60 minutes.