Polymers & composites

The manufacture of polymers, composites and resins emits many odorous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and solvents that can be successfully reduced through activated carbon filtration. One compound that is particularly problematic is styrene, which smells unpleasant even at very low concentrations. DESOTEC filters purify air emissions of odours, keeping relations harmonious between your company and those living nearby. If you receive odour complaints, we can install our filters fast so you stay on the right side of the authorities.

As well as causing an odour nuisance, certain VOCs are tightly controlled on environmental or occupational health grounds. Monochlorobenzene (MCB), for example, is harmful to human health, as is styrene at high concentrations. Other hazardous compounds include isocyanates in PU foam, chlorides in PVC, methylene chloride, and various substances of very high concern (SVHCs). DESOTEC activated carbon filters reduce all these to very low levels, allowing your company to remain compliant at all times. Furthermore, our waste carbon treatment process destroys these compounds, solving the problem for good. 

Activated carbon is an effective treatment for polymer and composite production wastewater, which is likely to contain traces of metal or carbon particulates, inks, dyes, solvents, microplastics, glass fibres, and chlorinated cleaning fluids. These pollutants, measured together as adsorbable organic halides (AOX) or chemical oxygen demand (COD), are removed by DESOTEC filters, either as a standalone treatment or in combination with complementary technology. The treated water is then discharged to wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) or reused in industrial processes, avoiding the need for costly specialist disposal. 

Emissions from the polymers and composites sector are controlled on the grounds of odour, environmental protection, and health and safety, but can be successfully treated through activated carbon filtration. DESOTEC has the know-how and technology to help your company comply with your legal obligations and the terms of your operating licence. If you receive odour complaints, or experience a spill or similar emergency, we can deliver our filters fast to start work immediately. They can work as a standalone treatment, or in combination with other technology as a pre-treatment or polishing step. Plus, we handle all filtration waste ourselves in accordance with environmental legislation, sparing your business the hassle. 

Activated carbon filtration is a Best Available Technology (BAT) for many pollution treatment applications, and is often the most cost-effective and sustainable option – but it does depend on various factors.

For example:

• Where air or water flow is discontinuous, activated carbon is generally more cost-effective than alternatives such as thermal oxidisers (RTOs).
• If space is tight, DESOTEC filters have a smaller footprint than most alternatives.
• For short-term usage, our filters are mobile and rental – unlike more permanent installations such as RTOs.
• If treatment is needed immediately, our filters can be delivered fast and are plug-and-play – some alternatives have a lengthy lead-in time.
• If your needs might change in the future, our systems are modular – other technology might be less adaptable.

DESOTEC is keen to help customers find the best treatment for their needs, and our experts will tell you if they think an alternative technology might be more suitable than activated carbon.

Activated carbon is a very versatile technology, so there are many ways to optimise set-ups – e.g. placing filters in series, using different carbon grades, or combining filters with complementary technology such as scrubbers. 

DESOTEC’s experts carry out testing, advise on set-up design, and offer ongoing support as part of our full-service solution. Our activated carbon filtration solutions have a low total cost of ownership (TCO): they have minimal capex costs, and our service includes maintenance, upgrading, and sustainable carbon waste handling. Thanks to our circular approach, waste carbon is reactivated wherever possible, reducing your TCO and your carbon footprint.