A New Absorbent Filter System for Treating Small Water Flows to Remove Hydrocarbon VOCs and Meet Environmental Requirements

The paper describes a new and simple filter system designed to remove hydrocarbons from wastewater streams. The system utilizes a specially designed multi-stage filter cartridge that exhibits virtually 100% removal of hydrocarbons and has a high capacity so the filters do not need frequent changing. The system cartridges can be installed in inexpensive, readily available commercial plastic filter housings and can be used either singly or in series. Series use is recommended because the first cartridge in series can be completely expended and then discarded. The second cartridge is then moved to the first position and a new cartridge installed in the second position. This ensures against inadvertent release of hydrocarbons. When expended, the used filter cartridges can be incinerated, depending on local regulations.