Simulation of mercury capture by sorbent injection using a simplified model

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Atmospheric Chemistry

Background:

• Mercury pollution from fossil fuel combustion and waste incineration is a significant global environmental issue.
• Powdered sorbent injection (PSI) is a cost-effective and practical technology for capturing mercury from flue gas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified model for predicting mercury capture efficiency in PSI systems.
• To evaluate the influence of various parameters on the mercury adsorption process.

Main Methods:

• The model is based on mass transfer theory, isothermal adsorption, and mass balance principles.
• Theoretical model predictions were compared with experimental data for validation.
• Sensitivity analysis was performed to identify key influencing factors.

Main Results:

• The simplified model demonstrates good predictive accuracy when compared to experimental results.
• Key parameters affecting mercury adsorption efficiency include mass transfer coefficient, sorbent concentration, sorbent properties, and adsorption capacity.
• Injected sorbent concentration was identified as the most influential factor.

Conclusions:

• The developed simplified model offers a convenient tool for predicting PSI mercury capture efficiency.
• Optimizing sorbent concentration is crucial for maximizing mercury removal effectiveness.
• This model aids in the design and operation of more efficient mercury control technologies.