Evaluation of Proposed Emission Limits

Independently evaluated mercury and particulate matter (PM) emission limits for the Utility Air Research Group. These limits for coal-fired power plants were proposed by EPA based on short-term measurements. We used long-term continuous emission data to critique EPA’s assumption that emissions were not correlated and proposed an alternate approach to calculate emission limits using non-parametric statistics.

30-day Average Mercury Emissions

Determined 30-day average mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants for a large electric utility. These plants used either co-benefit or activated carbon injection control technologies. We assessed emission variability and the effect of plant start-up on mercury emissions. Our client had reliable long-term mercury emission histories in advance of proposed EPA regulations.

Effectiveness of Activated Carbon Injection

Assessed mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants using activated carbon injection for a large electric utility. We studied the root causes of variations in mercury removal efficiency among units and across operating conditions. We proposed process control changes designed to reduce carbon use and increase mercury removal.

FGD Performance during Fuel Change

Evaluated flue gas desulfurization unit performance during test burn of high-sulfur coal. We worked with our client, a large electric utility, to interpret the results of a series of parametric tests. We recommended operating parameters for this unit and procedures to optimize FGD parameters.

Effectiveness of Mercury “Co-Benefit” Control

Determined long-term mercury emissions from coal-fired power plants which controlled mercury using existing air quality control equipment, called “co-benefit” control.  We identified process conditions which affected mercury emissions.  We recommended to our client, a large electric utility, additional research which led to improved mercury control.