Page 2 - Adsorption Technology & Design, Elsevier (1998)

Foreword

When asked about the most important technology for the Process In-
dustries, most people might offer 'reaction'. If one considers where value
is really added, it is more probably in the separation and purification of
the products. It is therefore a great pleasure to find that Professors
Crittenden and Thomas have made a major contribution to this with
their new book. My career has been spent in the Industrial Gases industry
where cost-effectiveness of separation processes is the main way of creat-
ing competitive advantage. In the last few years, adsorption technology
has become increasingly important in market development and market
share. It has allowed on-site gas generation, with considerable price
reduction, where previously we would have supplied liquefied gases.
This increased commercialization of the technology stimulates further
research into both the adsorbates and their applications, the virtuous
circle.
In Adsorption Technology and Design, we find a carefully crafted blend
of theory, practice and example. The reader who seeks only an overview is
as well served as the experienced practitioners seeking to broaden their
knowledge. Chapters 1 and 2 are an introduction that allows the non-
practitioner to gain some understanding of the history and technology.
Chapters 3 and 4 deal with the theory of adsorption equilibria and
adsorption kinetics respectively. These well-structured chapters define the
basic science of the subject and provide the essential grounding necessary
to allow applications development. Chapters 5 and 6 are a comprehensive
description of processes and cycles and their design procedures. Here the
practitioner may gain experience or inspiration to innovate. These chapters
are suitable reading for both the novice and the expert. Chapter 7 is the
consolidation of the book. Here we see how theory is put into commercial
practice. It also clearly illustrates the variety of possible approaches to
particular processes and the rate of development of the technology. Finally