Removal of Sulfur Dioxide and Nitric Oxide From a Flue Gas Stream By Two Sodium Alkalis of Various Sizes

Author

John R. Carson, University of Tennessee - Knoxville

Date of Award

8-1980

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Major

Environmental Engineering

Major Professor

Wayne T. Davis

Abstract

The primary purpose of this research effort was to examine the dry removal of SO₂ and NO from a flue gas stream by injecting two sodium additives into a pilot bag house system. The additives tested were NaHCO₃ and Na₂CO₃ dusts with mass mean diameters ranging from approximately 30 to 200 microns. The Na₂CO₃ was obtained by decomposing the NaHCO₃ (with heat) prior to testing. The bag house temperature was maintained at either 250 or 300 degrees F.

It was demonstrated that 70% SO₂ removal can be attained with NaHCO₃ powders that have mass mean diameters of 32 and 52 microns at stoichiometric ratios of 0.8 and 1.3, respectively. The rate of mass transfer limited the desulfurization capacity of NaHCO₃ powders with mass mean diameters greater than 50 microns. The rate of chemical reaction limited the SO₂ removal capability of the smallest NaHCO₃ additive tested (mass mean diameter = 32 microns). Decomposition of NaHCO₃ to Na₂CO₃ in bulk before injection yielded poorer SO₂ removal.

It was also demonstrated that 7 to 36% of the NO was removed simultaneously with SO₂ by the NaHCO₃ additives with mass mean diameters smaller than 120 microns. This removal was inversely dependent on the system temperature. No appreciable NO removal was observed with Na₂CO₃ injection.

Recommended Citation

Carson, John R., "Removal of Sulfur Dioxide and Nitric Oxide From a Flue Gas Stream By Two Sodium Alkalis of Various Sizes. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1980.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/937