MEMBRANE-BASED EXHAUST GAS SCRUBBING METHOD AND SYSTEM

摘要

A method and apparatus to reduce emissions by gas membrane separation and liquid carrier chemical absorption. The membrane separation system consists of an absorption system containing ceramic membranes through which is circulated an absorbent carrier. Exhaust gases contact the exterior surface of the membranes and the target gasses permeate the membrane wall and are absorbed by the carrier(s) within the bore and thereby are removed from the exhaust stream. Various exemplary embodiments are described for systems to regenerate the carrier, and systems designed to remove SO2 from the exhaust. One option uses an electrostatic charger to place a charge on the gas particles, while another uses a corona generator. In this aspect, the invention is also an improved electrostatic and corona separator, that uses a carrier liquid separated from the gas stream by a membrane to bear away undesirable particles instead of a deposit or collection plate or collection bag or similar device.

主权项

1. A method for reducing the concentration of SO2 from a source of engine exhaust gas comprising the steps of:
directing said engine exhaust gas from a first engine into an enclosed space containing at least one array of hollow fibre semi-permeable ceramic membranes, wherein said exhaust gas contacts an exterior surface of said membranes whereupon SO2 within said exhaust gas permeate through said membrane thereby lowering the concentration of said SO2 within said exhaust gas; circulating an aqueous NaOH carrier liquid capable of retaining said TEG through bores of said hollow fibre ceramic membranes thereby creating Na2SO3 and Na2SO4 within said carrier liquid to create an exit liquid; discharging said exhaust gas containing a reduced SO2 concentration from the enclosed space and removing said exit liquid containing said Na2SO3 and Na2SO4 therein from said hollow fibre ceramic membrane array; using an electrolyzer to convert the exit liquid into regenerated aqueous NaOH and aqueous H2SO4; and recirculating the regenerated aqueous NaOH through the bores of said hollow fibre ceramic membranes.