The problem with Nitrogen compounds (NOx) emissions is that they contribute to generating the greenhouse effect. For example, N2O causes 300 times more damage than CO2. In addition, NOx combines with the humidity of the air in the atmosphere and is the cause of acid rain and is therefore very dangerous for the environment.
Which industrial sectors does NOx emissions affect?
Mainly the industrial sectors that are most affected by NOx emissions are the municipal waste incineration activity, medical-hospital waste management as well as in treatment plants for the incineration of sludge containing high nitrogen content.
Technology solutions for industrial NOx emissions elimination
Technologies such as SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) and SNCR (Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction) are often used to eliminate NOx emissions in industrial sectors.
SCR consists of converting NOx to molecular nitrogen (N2) and water (H2O) with the help of a catalyst at temperatures between 350ºC and 500ºC. For the reactions to be carried out, catalysts with heavy metals such as palladium, platinum, etc. are needed.
The SNCR consists of converting NOX to molecular nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). In order for this process to be carried out, the difference is that ammonia (NH3) or urea can be used.
Usually, in waste incineration processes, these types of substances are generated in combustion chambers that usually work at more than 1000 ºC. Subsequently, the combustion gases are usually sent to energy recovery systems (for example, recovery boilers, steam generation boilers or hot water). This is where the ammonia or urea solution can be injected so that they can be neutralized.
If you need further information on this topic or with your emissions treatment in general, please do not hesitate to contact us: info@tecamgroup.com or +34 93 428 11 54.
