Catalyst Activity Characterization and Proper Integration in Small‐Scale Biomass Combustion Systems

Abstract

Catalysts can reduce emissions from biomass combustion systems. Efficient use in small-scale applications is challenging due to the variations of temperature, fluid flow, and flue gas composition. An analytical procedure was defined and evaluated with three commercial catalysts to realize efficient integration. The characterization included activity measurements at three facilities: a model gas analysis device, a laboratory-scale combustion system, and a wood log stove. The results demonstrate the possibilities of model gas analysis to define a scope of application and also the need for catalyst characterization under real operation conditions to determine the performance and stability of the final process. Temperature and gas hourly space velocity are the two main parameters influencing catalyst activity.

Application of a Robust Thermoelectric Gas Sensor in Firewood Combustion Exhausts

“…Especially, small wood log fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular. However, as the current status of firing technology emissions from furnaces operated in domestic households is that they significantly contribute to air pollution [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ], applications such as catalysts for the abatement of air pollutants are needed [ 5 , 6 ]. Flue gas comprises a huge variety of components depending on several factors such as the used type of wood, its origin, its humidity, etc.…”

Extensive Gaseous Emissions Reduction of Firewood-Fueled Low Power Fireplaces by a Gas Sensor Based Advanced Combustion Airflow Control System and Catalytic Post-Oxidation

“…This shows that the combination of low-power wood-log fueled appliances with an oxidation catalyst does not automatically result in a significant decrease in emissions. In addition to being an appropriate choice of catalyst material (morphology, porosity), it needs a well-suited positioning of the catalyst in the hot zone of the fireplace [ 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 ] and—as a consequence of the current understanding of the firing process—a continuous and well-defined adjustment of the combustion air streams. The latter can never be satisfactorily done by manual control because even well-trained operators with a good understanding of the firing process are unable to estimate the actual process situation (temperature, required air stream, etc.)…”