Photocatalysis as a method for reduction of ambient NOx in deep underground mines

Abstract

Air pollution is a critical global issue. The introduction of further restrictions on the emission of harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides (NOx), is posing a growing challenge to various industries. This problem also affects the underground mining sector, where in most cases the entire fleets are powered by diesel engines. It is therefore important, in order to improve the health and safety of underground miners, to develop appropriate methods to reduce exposures of underground miners to harmful gas and particulates. This study investigated the effectiveness of photocatalysis as a method to reduce the concentration of nitrogen oxides in underground copper mines in Poland. The study was based on laboratory measurements using an AVL GAS PEMS gas analyzer. A number of experiments were carried out and the results obtained were subjected to statistical analysis. By fitting appropriate curves – linear and sums of two exponents – an assessment was made of the process carried out comparing the obtained coefficients. This study showed that methodology based on photocatalysis has potential as a strategy for controlling exposures of underground miners to nitrogen dioxide.