The mechanisms of adsorption can be categorized into two main types:
Physisorption: This involves weak van der Waals forces and is usually reversible. It occurs at lower temperatures and is characterized by multilayer adsorption. Chemisorption: This involves the formation of strong chemical bonds between the adsorbate and the adsorbent. It is often irreversible and occurs at higher temperatures, usually resulting in monolayer adsorption.