Plasma-catalyzed combined dynamic wave scrubbing: A novel method for highly efficient removal of multiple pollutants from flue gas at low temperatures

In this study, we developed a novel approach combining a non-thermal plasma system with M(Ce, Cu)-Mn/13X oxidation and post-dynamic wave wet scrubbing technologies, for effectively removing multiple pollutants from flue gases. Experimental results demonstrated that the plasma coupled with post-dynamic wave wet scrubbing achieved impressive synergistic removal efficiencies of 98% for SO2, 50.9% for NO, and 51.3% for Hg0 in flue gas. Through the use of M(Ce, Cu)-Mn/13X catalysts synthesized via the co-precipitation, the oxidation efficiency of the system is significantly enhanced, with synergistic removal efficiencies reaching up to 100% for SO2, 98.7% for NO, and 96% for Hg0. Notably, (Ce-Mn)/13X exhibited superior catalytic activity, the results are supported by comprehensive sample characterization, DFT mechanistic analysis, and experimental validation. Additionally, we elucidated the plasma oxidation mechanism and the working principles of the M(Ce, Cu)-Mn/13X loaded catalysts. This innovative technology not only facilitates pollutant oxidation but also ensures their complete removal from flue gas, providing a high-efficiency, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for the treatment of multi-pollutants in flue gases. Hg0, SO2, and NO are the main gaseous pollutants emitted during lead and zinc smelting processes and from thermal power plants. Conventional methods for treating multiple pollutants, such as adsorbents and wet desulfurization, often suffer from issues like low removal efficiency, process complexity, and high costs. Hence, there is a pressing need to develop a multi-pollutant treatment technology capable of simultaneously addressing these three gaseous pollutants with high efficiency, without generating any by-product emissions. Such advancements can revolutionize the field by providing an effective solution for treating multiple gaseous pollutants while minimizing environmental impact and cost considerations.