Spectroscopic Studies of Nuclear Submarine Atmospheres. I. Desorption and Analysis of Contaminants from Hopcalite
Abstract
A semi-microanalytical method is described for desorbing contaminants from Hopcalite, an oxide catalyst used in the purification of submarine atmospheres. The method was especially developed for recovering contaminants absorbed on catalyst samples rendered explosive by incorrect usage. The contaminants are desorbed from the Hopcalite by passing pressurized steam through a column of the catalyst. The various compounds are eluted from the column successively in a manner analagous to a liquid chromatogram. The desorbed contaminants are recovered from the steam condensate by extraction with an appropriate solvent. Infrared spectral analyses of contaminants desorbed from Hopcalite following its use as a catalyst for the oxidation of pure compounds at various temperatures has provided a basis for ascertaining ex post facto the approximate operating conditions of a given catalyst bed. Steam elution of bulk catalyst provides a suitable method of salvaging explosively contaminated catalyst. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1959
- Accession Number
- AD0858864
Entities
People
- Raymond A. Saunders
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory