The new technology uses a single sorbent for the simultaneous and effective capture of both Hg and SO3 from coal combustion gases. The patented process offers a simpler and more effective approach for mercury control and compliance with the Mercury and Air Toxics (MATS) regulation, at a fraction of the cost of competing technologies.
The new process is based on the successful SBS Injection sorbent injection technology offered by URS for control of SO3 emissions from power plants. By drastically reducing SO3 in the flue gas prior to the air heater, the mercury adsorption capacity of unburned carbon, naturally present in fly ash, can be dramatically enhanced. Removal of SO3 prior to the air heater also allows for greater heat recovery and a reduction in flue gas temperature, which further enhances the capture and removal of mercury. SBS Injection is the only sorbent-based technology capable of achieving the SO3 and temperature reductions necessary to achieve high mercury capture.
"Recent test results suggest that this new approach could help power plants achieve MATS compliance without the need for costly mercury controls, such as activated carbon injection or fabric filters," stated Sterling Gray, URS Business Development Manager. "URS now offers performance guarantees for the combined removal of mercury and SO3 using a single sorbent injection process, capable of achieving significant savings both in capital and operating costs for a typical power plant burning high-sulfur coal."
