Arsenic Emission Control from Coal Combustion Flue Gas

Abstract

Arsenic is a highly toxic element in coal and one of the representative toxic trace metals emitted from coal-fired power plants, which is mainly converted into As2O3 vapor during the combustion process of coal. When absorbed by the body, arsenic can cause arsenic poisoning, which not only causes metabolic disorders and subsequent neurotoxicity in the body but also retards growth in young children. Arsenic is of increasing concern due to its bioaccumulation and potential carcinogenicity. This chapter describes the characteristics of arsenic emissions from coal-fired power plants and the various control technologies, including pre-, in-, and post-combustion control technologies. It also provides an outlook on future technological developments and provides theoretical guidance for controlling arsenic in flue gas.