Novel $\hbox{NO}_{\rm x}$ and VOC Treatment Using Concentration and Plasma Decomposition

Stringent NO
_x
and volatile organic compound (VOC) flue gas regulation are set force for various industrial emission sources. The conventional emission control technologies such as selective catalytic reduction for NO
_x
treatment and incineration and catalysts for VOC treatment have limitations in terms of operating conditions, costs, and performance. A novel, economical, and cost-effective device is mandated to meet the regulations. A new approach consists of flue gas adsorption, desorption (concentration and adsorbent regeneration), followed by nonthermal plasma decomposition. This concept was applied for NO
_x
, various VOCs, and other hazardous air pollutant treatment. More than 90% of NO
_x
and VOC reduction was achieved using a series of surface discharge units. The energy efficiencies of 3.35 g( NO
₂
)/kWh for NO
_x
and 34.2 g/kWh for toluene were achieved using concentration technique, followed by surface discharge plasma reactor. These hybrid processes make the flue gas volume order of magnitude small, resulting in the reduction of the energy yield, reactor size, power supply, and total system costs.