Process and apparatus for purifying exhaust gases

摘要

The invention relates to a process for purifying NOx-containing exhaust gases from combustion systems and internal combustion engines. The NOx molecules contained in the exhaust gas are reacted with atomic hydrogen, forming nitrogen and water. The atomic hydrogen is formed by electrolysis from the water vapour contained in the exhaust gas. To carry out the process, an apparatus (1) is provided which has a solid electrolyte (2) of a zirconium oxide. The solid electrolyte (2) is cylindrically shaped and has a respective electrode (3, 4) on its interior and exterior, of which at least the electrode (3) coming into contact with the exhaust gas to be purified has catalytic properties. The two electrodes (3, 4) are connected to a direct current source (5), with the aid of a which a voltage greater than 1.3 V is developed between the two electrodes. <IMAGE>