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Mercury emissions from geothermal power plants
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 3, 1977
Summary
Geothermal power plants release significant mercury into the atmosphere. These mercury emissions, primarily elemental mercury vapor, are comparable to those from coal-fired power plants.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Atmospheric Chemistry
Background:
- Geothermal energy is a renewable resource.
- Geothermal steam contains volatile mercury.
- Mercury is a toxic heavy metal with environmental implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify mercury emissions from geothermal power plants.
- To compare geothermal mercury emissions to other sources.
- To assess the atmospheric release of mercury from geothermal operations.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of geothermal steam composition.
- Monitoring of cooling tower exhaust.
- Calculation of emission factors per megawatt (electric).
Main Results:
- Geothermal steam contains substantial volatile mercury.
- Elemental mercury vapor is a major component of emissions.
- Mercury release rates are comparable to coal-fired power plants on a per megawatt basis.
Conclusions:
- Geothermal power generation contributes to atmospheric mercury pollution.
- Emission controls may be necessary for geothermal facilities.
- Further research into mercury speciation and fate is warranted.