Process optimization of S (IV) oxidation in flue gas desulfurization scrubbers

Abstract At present, the control of oxidation process is imprecise in the wet flue gas desulfurization system. In this study, a modified oxidation model is established to investigate convective mass transfer of O2 and the oxidation of S (IV) under natural and forced oxidation conditions. By comparison, the model results are in good agreement with experimental results. Based on the motion of droplet in the scrubber and bubble in the slurry pool, natural oxidation rate is calculated to provide guidance for forced oxidation and recommended oxidation air flow rate. Droplet accelerates until it reaches terminal velocity. Mass transfer resistance mainly occurs in the liquid film. The mass transfer flux of the droplet with diameter of 1.5 mm increases continuously until it remains stable. The natural oxidation rate increases with the increasing of inlet O2 concentration while the forced oxidation rate increases with the increasing of oxidation air flow rate. Several gas flow rates are taken into consideration to obtain the optimal oxidation air flow rate, showing that smaller drop diameter has positive impact on oxidation process in flue gas desulfurization scrubbers.