Catalytic oxidation of trichloroethylene over 5% [alpha]-Fe2O3/[gamma]-Alumina on a honeycomb monolith

This study addresses the ability of iron oxide to catalytically oxidize low concentrations of trichloroethylene (TCE) with air. The catalytic oxidation of trichloroethylene in a tubular reactor system was evaluated experimentally as a function of temperature and space velocity. A gas chromatograph with electron capture and flame ionization detectors was used for quantitative analysis of feed and product streams. X-ray diffraction measurement were used to qualitatively analyze the catalyst. The result indicate that over 99% conversion of 109 ppmv trichloroethylene in air is achieved at 1,490 v/v/hr and 450 °C, and at 21,768 v/v/hr, 550 °C. The major products from the oxidation of trichloroethylene over iron oxide are CO2, Cl2, and HCl, with trace amount of CC14, CHCI3 and CO at lower temperatures