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What Factors Affect the Quality of Carbon Molecular Sieves?

2026-01-14

The quality of carbon molecular sieves is influenced by a variety of factors, which can be summarized as material properties, preparation process, operating conditions, and maintenance management.


 

Material Properties and Structure: The microporous structure and surface properties of carbon molecular sieves are fundamental. Their pore size distribution needs to match the size of gas molecules (typically 0.3-1.0 nm) to achieve efficient separation. A larger specific surface area results in stronger adsorption capacity, directly affecting nitrogen and oxygen separation efficiency. Furthermore, the packing amount and uniformity are crucial in equipment application; insufficient packing reduces purity, while excessive packing increases resistance. Uneven packing leads to uneven gas distribution, affecting overall performance.

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Preparation Process and Raw Materials: Parameters such as deposition temperature during the preparation process affect the separation performance of carbon molecular sieves. For example, in methane/nitrogen separation, improper temperature control can alter adsorption characteristics. The selection of raw materials and process stability also determine the mechanical strength and resistance to pulverization of the molecular sieve. Operating Conditions and Environmental Factors: During long-term operation, temperature fluctuations, unstable inlet pressure (e.g., below 0.65 MPa), and the presence of oil or moisture in the inlet air will accelerate deterioration. Excessive operating load or improper cycle settings can also lead to pulverization.

 

Maintenance and Service Life: Insufficient regular maintenance, contaminant accumulation, and excessive usage time (over 3-5 years) will cause pulverization, affecting nitrogen purity and equipment lifespan. Improper valve sealing and system pressure management can also indirectly reduce molecular sieve efficiency.