Abstract

Purpose: This study developed and pilot-scale evaluated a continuous treatment system for reducing high-boiling compounds and fine particles associated with adhesive and fouling-prone behavior in UV coating exhaust gas. Research Design & Data: The study combined material screening and pilot operation to assess adsorbent applicability, THC breakthrough behavior, fine-particle removal, differential-pressure development, and overall inlet–outlet particle reduction under continuous operating conditions. Activated-carbon media were compared using breakthrough behavior, and pilot-scale data were interpreted from an integrated engineering perspective emphasizing downstream protection and operational stability. Research Results: UV-LED pre-treatment delayed THC breakthrough and lowered the early loading imposed on the downstream adsorption-support section. Fine-particle removal remained higher and more stable with pre-treatment, indicating reduced transport of fouling-prone particulate matter to downstream components. Differential-pressure development showed earlier loading in the upstream pre-filter and a more limited increase in the downstream spherical activated-carbon filter, supporting the staged treatment concept. Inlet–outlet particle profiles in the field pilot system confirmed particle-load reduction under continuous operation. These findings support a field-oriented strategy for practical industrial application. Conclusion: The proposed continuous treatment system showed pilot-scale engineering applicability for simultaneously improving pollutant control and downstream operational stability in UV coating exhaust treatment, although long-term commercial-scale validation remains necessary.