Technical Sodium Bicarbonate and Activated Carbon/Lignite Coke for Special Municipal Waste to Energy Incineration Plants

Incineration of municipal solid waste (MSW) is one of the most effective methods for reducing waste volume while generating electricity and heat. This process, however, produces fumes that are potentially harmful to the environment due to the presence of sulfur oxides (SOx), hydrochloric acid (HCl), hydrofluoric acid (HF), and heavy metals. To mitigate these harmful effects, cutting-edge purification technologies are employed, including the combined use of technical sodium bicarbonate and activated carbon or lignite coke, and, where the type of plant requires it, also magnesium lime.

Solution with Technical Grade Sodium Bicarbonate plus Active Carbon or Lignite Coke

The innovative approach involves a two-stage purification system, with technical sodium bicarbonate and activated carbon or lignite coke at the core of the pollutant abatement strategy. Sodium bicarbonate is introduced to specifically neutralize the acids present in the smoke, such as HCl and SOx, transforming them into harmless salts. This chemical reaction reduces the acidity of the exhaust gases, minimizing the environmental impact of MSW incineration. Activated carbon and lignite coke, on the other hand, are used for their ability to adsorb a wide range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and heavy metals, such as mercury. Their porous surface allows for the effective treatment of complex pollutants that would otherwise escape conventional filtration methods.

Magnesium Lime

In some systems, it may be useful to add Magnesium Lime directly to the combustion chamber to neutralize low-concentration acids. Magnesium Lime supports the neutralization action of bicarbonate, and like activated carbon, it can intercept and bind to certain substances, such as heavy metals. This ensures more complete filtration, establishing it as a valuable reagent alongside bicarbonate and activated carbon or lignite coke.