Decomposition Characteristics of Benzene by Microwave

Under the irradiation of radiofrequency wave, the dipole materials vibrate as microwave phase changes. This causes friction between adjacent molecules and enables an unique characteristics of interior heating of the materials. Using this principle, when harmful material pass through anthracite- bed which play a role as a absorber of radiofrequency wave, the material can be easily decomposed by the microwave energy. To remove benzene vapour and other solvents in the process of industry, we examined decomposition of benzene in this manner. It was found that benzene was decomposed to the methane, ethane, propane and butane, etc. during passing through the carbon-bed under the microwave impingement and distribution of methane in the products reached about 85 vol.%. The decomposition rate of benzene was high within 5 minutes from start of reaction. For a lower concentration of benzene gas, general cases in the field of industry, almost complete decomposition of benzene is believed possible and this method is surely expected to be useful for the prevention of air pollution and improvement of ambient condition.