Magnetically responsive catalytic sorbent for removal of Hg0 and NO

A novel class of magnetically responsive catalytic sorbents are proposed and synthesized with a potential application to simultaneous removal of Hg0 and NO at low temperature from the flue gases of coal-fired power plants. The catalytic sorbent consists of magnetite (Fe3O4), molecular sieve (HZSM-5), supported silver nanoparticles and catalytically reactive component of V2O5. Each of these materials provides a unique function for the purpose of capturing mercury, removing NO, and separation from fly ash. After separation from the fly ash, the spent sorbent can be regenerated and reused, leaving an uncontaminated fly ash product. The successful synthesis as designed was confirmed and properties of the catalytic sorbent were characterized by several methods. The synthesized catalytic sorbent was able to completely capture Hg0 at 150 °C with a capture capacity as high as 32.4 μg·g−1, while achieving 84% removal of NO at 150 °C. Even at a relatively high space velocity, the catalytic sorbent achieved 97% Hg0 and 80% NO removal simultaneously, while maintaining a good stability after repetitive regeneration and recycle. The magnetically responsive catalytic composite was shown to be a promising candidate for multi-pollutant emission control from coal-fired power plants.