Evaluating the potential of CNT-supported Co catalyst used for gas pollution removal in the incineration flue gas

Abstract

This study investigated the use of Cu/Al 2O 3, Co/Al 2O 3, Fe/Al 2O 3, and Ni/Al 2O 3 catalysts for the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These CNTs were used as support for Co catalyst preparation and Co/CNT catalysts were applied to a catalytic reaction to remove BTEX, PAHs, SO 2, NO, and CO simultaneously in a pilot-scale incineration system. The analyzed results of EDS and XRD showed low metal content and good dispersion characteristics of the Al 2O 3-supported catalysts by excess-solution impregnation. FESEM analyzed results showed that the CNTs that were synthesized from Co, Fe, and Ni catalysts had a diameter of 20 nm, whereas those synthesized from Cu/Al 2O 3 had a diameter of 50 nm. Pilot-scale test results demonstrated that the Co/CNT catalyst effectively removed air pollutants in the catalytic reaction and that there was no obvious deactivation by Pb, water vapor, and coke deposited in the process. The thermal stabilization at 250 °C and hydrophobicity properties of CNTs enhanced the application of CNT catalysts in flue gas.