Mathematical modeling,steady state simulation,parametric analysis and optimization of SO2 capture in a countercurrent moving bed (CaO and C) reactor

The use of absorbents based on calcium for the reduction of SO₂ emissions from power plants has been studied for the last 30 years. The present work is part of a research project aimed at the development of a moving bed limestone filter. It is placed after burning in order to capture the SO₂ from the flue gases of pulverized lignite combustors. A heterogeneous mathematical model was developed for the steady‐state simulation of a gas–solid countercurrent moving bed reactor. The mathematical model was solved using the method of finite elements and gave results for the temperature and conversion profile along the reactor. Also, parametric analysis (for T_g,in, T_s,in, u_s, q_o, , , d_o, z_o) was performed and useful conclusions concerning the behavior of a moving bed reactor in different conditions were drawn. Finally, optimization of conditions was performed to give an SO₂ conversion higher than 0.95. The results are of important technological interest as a dry process in applications of SO₂ capture. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry