Characterization of selected epa priority pollutant elements in process and potential waste streams of an experimental low-btu gasifier

• Published in: Fuel processing technology 1984-01, Vol.9 (1), p.91-101
• Main Authors: Hanson, Ray L., Benson, Janet M., Newton, George J., Henderson, Rogene F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Energy; Exact sciences and technology; Fuel processing. Carbochemistry and petrochemistry; Fuels; Solid fuel processing (coal, coke, brown coal, peat, wood, etc.)
• ISSN: 0378-3820; 1873-7188
• DOI: 10.1016/0378-3820(84)90009-2

To aid in assessment of potential environmental consequences of coal gasification, process streams of an experimental, fixed-bed Wellman—Galusha gasifier were analyzed. Selected Environmental Protection Agency priority pollutant elements were analyzed by atomic absorption spectroscopy. These analyses were intended to aid in the evaluation of the effectiveness of product gas clean-up devices and provide data for improved human health risk estimates. We analyzed samples of Venturi scrubber water, tars from the humidifier and tar trap, dust from the cyclone, and raw and cleaned samples of process gas. Lead, chromium, and arsenic in the Venturi scrubber outlet water were present at 100, 40, and 26 times the limit of the primary drinking water standard (0.05 ppm) for these elements. Significantly higher concentrations of sodium and potassium were observed in the smaller particles than in the larger particles collected by a high-temperature high-pressure cascade impactor from the raw process gas. Enrichment of chromium and nickel in process stream particles during passage through the clean-up system may indicate some erosion of the gas producer.