Molten Salt Synthesis of Iron Oxide Modified Attapulgite for Catalytic Oxidation of Elemental Mercury

Abstract

IIron oxide modified attapulgite (Fe₂O₃-ATP) catalysts, with special network structure, were prepared by molten salt method, and were applied to investigate Hg⁰ oxidation ability in simulated flue gas from 100 to 260°C. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were employed to characterize the catalysts. The results showed that Fe₂O₃-ATP exhibited about 90% average Hg⁰ oxidation efficiency at 220°C. With the decrease of theFe₂O₃- in Fe₂O₃--ATP, the Hg⁰ oxidation efficiency reduced. Furthermore, the flue gas components seriously affected the Hg⁰ oxidation. The presence of Cl₂ and O₂ could promote the Hg⁰ oxidation, while SO₂ would inhibit Hg⁰ oxidation. Cl₂ was the most effective component of the three for Hg⁰ oxidation.