Calcium Bromide for Effective Mercury Emission Control
Utilizing Calcium Bromide (CaBr₂) to reduce harmful mercury emissions from industrial sources, particularly coal-fired power plants, contributing to environmental protection and regulatory compliance.
High-Purity CaBr₂ Solutions by DETERRA LTD.
The Challenge of Industrial Mercury Emissions
Mercury (Hg) is a toxic heavy metal released into the atmosphere from various industrial activities, with coal combustion in power plants being a significant contributor. Elemental mercury (Hg⁰) in flue gas is difficult to capture with conventional pollution control devices. Once in the environment, mercury can convert to methylmercury, bioaccumulate in food chains, and pose serious health risks to humans and wildlife.
Key Concerns with Mercury Emissions:
- Environmental Contamination: Deposition into soil and water bodies.
- Bioaccumulation: Concentration in aquatic organisms, leading to high levels in predatory fish.
- Human Health Impacts: Neurological and developmental problems, particularly in vulnerable populations.
- Regulatory Pressure: Stringent national and international regulations (e.g., Minamata Convention, MATS in the USA) mandate significant reductions in mercury emissions.
Calcium Bromide's Role in Mercury Capture
Calcium Bromide (CaBr₂) is used as a chemical additive to enhance the oxidation of elemental mercury (Hg⁰) in flue gas to its oxidized form, mercuric bromide (HgBr₂). Oxidized mercury is more water-soluble and can be more effectively captured by existing air pollution control devices.
Mechanism of Action:
- Injection: Calcium Bromide solution (or sometimes powder) is typically injected into the boiler or flue gas stream of a coal-fired power plant.
- Thermal Decomposition: At high temperatures, CaBr₂ decomposes, releasing bromine species.
- Oxidation: These bromine species react with elemental mercury (Hg⁰) in the flue gas, oxidizing it to mercuric bromide (HgBr₂).
Hg⁰ + Br₂ → HgBr₂(Simplified reaction) - Enhanced Capture: Oxidized mercury (HgBr₂) is more readily adsorbed by particulate matter and captured by:
- Electrostatic Precipitators (ESPs)
- Fabric Filters (Baghouses)
- Wet Flue Gas Desulfurization (FGD) scrubbers
Conceptual illustration of flue gas treatment.
Advantages of Using CaBr₂ for Mercury Control:
Improved Capture Efficiency
Significantly increases the removal rate of mercury compared to relying on native capture alone.
Cost-Effectiveness
Can be a more economical solution compared to installing dedicated mercury removal technologies, especially when leveraging existing pollution control equipment.
Compatibility
Generally compatible with existing plant infrastructure and other pollution control systems like SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for NOx control.
Primary Application: Coal-Fired Power Plants
The most significant application of Calcium Bromide for mercury control is in coal-fired power plants. The type of coal burned, boiler configuration, and existing air pollution control devices (APCDs) influence the effectiveness and optimal injection strategy for CaBr₂.
It is often used in conjunction with sorbent injection technologies, such as Powdered Activated Carbon (PAC), where CaBr₂ pre-oxidizes the mercury, making it easier for the PAC to adsorb.
Factors Influencing Effectiveness:
- Coal type (halogen content, ash composition)
- Boiler operating conditions (temperature profiles)
- Flue gas composition (SO₂, NOx levels)
- Type and efficiency of existing APCDs
- CaBr₂ injection rate and location
DETERRA LTD: Your Partner in Emission Reduction
DETERRA LTD provides high-quality Calcium Bromide suitable for mercury emission control applications. We understand the critical need for reliable and effective solutions to meet environmental standards.
Consistent Product Quality
Our CaBr₂ (available in liquid or powder) meets purity specifications required for effective mercury oxidation.
Reliable Supply Chain
We ensure timely delivery of Calcium Bromide to support continuous industrial operations.
Technical Consultation
While we supply the chemical, we can connect you with experts for application-specific advice and system optimization.
Inquire About CaBr₂ for Mercury Control
Contact DETERRA LTD to learn more about how our Calcium Bromide products can assist in your mercury emission control strategies. We are committed to supporting industries in their efforts towards environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
Request a Quote for Emission Control Applications