INTEGRATED TESTING OF THE NOXSO PROCESS: SIMULTANEOUS REMOVAL OF SO2 AND NO x FROM FLUE GAS

Abstract Parametric studies with the NOXSO process—a dry, regenerable flue gas treatment system that simultaneously removes SO2 and NOx from flue gas produced by the combustion of coal—were conducted. The reusable sorbent that was tested consisted of sodium carbonate impregnated on a high surface area γ-alumina sphere (1·6- mm nominal diameter). All process steps, including adsorption and regeneration, were integrated into a new 60-KWe-scale Life-Cycle Test Unit so that continuous, long-term operation of the total process could be experimentally evaluated. The effects of sorbent flow rate, temperature, inlet SO2 and NOx, concentrations, and sorbent residence time (fluid bed depth) on pollutant removal efficiencies in the absorption step were determined. Also, the impact of the type of regenerant gas, temperature, steam, excess regenerant gas, and diluent on the regeneration of the sorbent was investigated. Sorbent properties with respect to time on stream (cycles of operation) are also reported.