Simultaneous removal of CO₂, NO_x and SO_x using single stage absorption column

Capturing flue gases often require multiple stages of scrubbing, increasing the capital and operating costs. So far, no attempt has been made to study the absorption characteristics of all the three gases (NO, SO₂ and CO₂) in a single stage absorption unit at alkaline pH conditions. We have attempted to capture all the three gases with a single wet scrubbing column. The absorption of all three gases with sodium carbonate solution promoted with oxidizers was investigated in a tall absorption column. The absorbance was found to be 100% for CO₂, 30% for NO and 95% for SO₂ respectively. The capture efficiency of sodium carbonate solution was increased by 40% for CO₂ loading, with the addition of oxidizer. Absorption kinetics and reaction pathways of all the three gases were discussed individually in detail.