Catalytic Seawater Flue Gas Desulfurization Model

A model of a seawater flue gas desulfurization process (SFGD) where oxidation of the absorbed SO2 is catalyzed by activated carbon is presented. The modeled SFGD process is comprised of two main units, an absorption packed scrubber, where SO2 absorption takes place, and an oxidation basin, where the absorbed SO2 is catalytically oxidized to sulfate, a natural component of seawater. The model takes into account the complex physical-chemical features of the process, combining mass-transfer, kinetics and equilibrium equations, and considering the electrolyte nature of the liquid phase. The model was validated with data from a SFGD pilot plant and a sensitivity analysis was performed, showing its predictive capability. The model is a useful tool for designing industrial desulfurization units with seawater.