Three-dimensional ordered zeolite-templated carbon with covalent sulfur for efficient removal of elemental mercury: Experimental study and molecular dynamic simulation

Traditional activated carbon used to remove elemental mercury (Hg-0) from coal-fired power plants exhibit an irregular porous structure, showing an adverse effect on the removal of Hg-0. To obtain carbon materials with a regular porous structure, zeolite-templated carbon samples (ZTC and S-doped ZTC) with a three-dimensional ordered structure were synthesized via the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method using C2H2 and H2S as the carbon and sulfur precursor on BEA zeolite. Several techniques including TG-MS, SEM-TEM-EDS, etc. were used to determine that ZTC replicated the regular microporous structure of zeolite and generated turbostratic carbon. Moreover, the Hg-0 removal efficiency (MRE) of ZTC samples was investigated. At 30 degrees C, they removed Hg-0 mainly by physisorption, while at 150.C, chemisorption was the dominant approach for capturing Hg-0. The influence of flue gas components (H2O, NH3, and SO2) on the MRE of ZTC-HS was further studied by experimental methods and molecular dynamic (MD). H2O and NH3 weakened the MRE of ZTC-HS due to the competing adsorption. The effect of SO2 on the MRE of ZTC-HS was related to its concentration. Because of its advantages in regeneration features, preparation cost and higher resistance to flue gas components, ZTC-HS exhibited the potential for industrial applications.

Automated summary

Traditional activated carbon with irregular porous structure in coal-fired power plants has a negative effect on the removal of Hg-0. Zeolite-templated carbon samples (ZTC and S-doped ZTC) with a regular porous structure were synthesized using CVD method. ZTC replicated the microporous structure of zeolite and showed potential for industrial applications due to features like regeneration, lower preparation cost, and higher resistance to flue gas components.