Sorbers

A sorber is a device or material designed to absorb something, typically a fluid or a specific chemical substance. The term is often used in industrial contexts, particularly in chemical processing, air purification, and environmental remediation. Sorbers function by utilizing a porous material or a chemically reactive surface that attracts and holds molecules of the substance to be absorbed. This process, known as sorption, can be either physisorption, where molecules are held by weak intermolecular forces, or chemisorption, where molecules chemically bond to the sorber material.

Common examples of sorbers include activated carbon, zeolites, and silica gel. Activated carbon, with its vast surface area and porous structure, is widely used for removing organic compounds and odors from air and water. Zeolites are crystalline aluminosilicates that can selectively adsorb molecules based on their size and polarity, making them useful in gas separation and water softening. Silica gel is another popular desiccant, effectively absorbing moisture from the air to prevent degradation of sensitive materials. The choice of sorber depends on the specific application and the properties of the substance being removed. Once saturated, sorbers may need to be regenerated, often through heating or flushing with a different gas, or disposed of if regeneration is not feasible.