Microwave Low-Temperature Treatment for Dilute Gaseous Effluents

The process described in this proposal has the potential to dramatically reduce the costs of removing nitric oxide (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), dry particulate matter (DPM,soot), Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), unburned products of combustion, and other hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) that may be effluents from AF maintenance or training operations, and stationary diesel powered electric generators. The CHA Corp proposes a new approach where a very small amount of JP-8 is injected into the exhaust as it exits the stationary sources. The gases then pass through a catalyst impregnated filter that is excited with low level microwave energy. The outer layer of the filter will capture soot which will then oxidize rapidly in the presence of microwave energy, preventing buildup of soot on the filter surface. A second layer of the filter will contain catalysts to promote the reduction of NOx with JP-8 in oxygen rich atmospheres. Finally, a third layer in the filter element will contain an oxidizing catalyst to promote the complete conversion of CO and VOCs to carbon dioxide and water. In Phase I of this proposed program, the CHA Corporation will demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed approach. Phase II will be devoted to developing the practical technology for implementing the proposed approach and to demonstrating the system on a 50 hp diesel engine.