R and D

REI takes an integrated approach to pollutant emissions from combustion sources. We continue to innovate and develop new models and modeling tools in the areas of NOx, SO2, and mercury. We put our modeling tools to work for clients, solving problems in a variety of industrial applications.

Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx): REI advises clients on a wide variety of NOx control technologies. We use our CFD and other modeling tools to predict emissions in utility and industrial boilers for integrated NOx control:

When we evaluate NOx control strategies, we do more than prediction NOx emissions. REI has the tools and expertise to look at aspects of NOx control that affect operation and performance of combustion systems, including LOI, waterwall corrosion, and deactivation of SCR catalyst

Sulfur: In some coal-fired boilers, corrosion rates can be dominated by by the presence of reducing gases (CO and H2S) or by the deposition of ash or char containing partially reacted material (sulfur and carbon). Accordingly, REI has modeled the evolution of sulfur species in the combustion zone.

The evolution of SO3 in the backpass of a coal-fired boiler impacts both operation (air heater fouling, low-temperature corrosion) and emissions (visible plumes). REI uses models for SO2 oxidation to predict production of SO3. Detailed CFD modeling of injection of calcium and magnesium for SO3 control in the backpass has also been carried out

Mercury: In December 2000, EPA announced their intent to regulate mercury emissions from nation’s coal-fired power plants. Estimates for the cost of meeting mercury regulations at the level of 90% removal efficiency range from $2 to $5 billion per year. With mercury regulations imminent, mercury control technologies need to be proven at full scale to document performance and costs.

Learn more about mercury chemistry in the environment and in flue gas from REI's Mercury Tutorial.

Global Mercury Cycle in the Environment: REI is developing fundamental models for predicting mercury behavior in coal-fired power plants and is participating in the DOE-sponsored program on demonstration of full-scale injection of powdered activated carbon for control of mercury emissions.