The DOE is interested in reducing the emission of particulate matter in gaseous effluent from both thermal and non-thermal treatment facilities, including coal-fired power plants, incinerators, metals manufacturing, chemical plants, and nuclear treatment facilities. Progress in this area will require the development of instruments to monitor the mass and composition these particulates. The major desired features are sensitivity, multiple metal analytical capability, in situ measurement capability, ruggedness, and cost effectiveness. This project will develop and market an in situ, continuous emissions monitor that determines the mass and elemental composition of fine particles in gaseous effluent, along with the concentration of mercury vapor. In Phase I, the numerous constants necessary for the quantification of unknowns will be measured. Innovative mathematics will be applied to the measured responses from complex mixtures in order to resolve them into their components. A prototype, laboratory-scale instrument will be assembled.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The monitor should allow for the real-time, multiple-metals analysis of both gaseous and aqueous effluents, and coal feedstocks. Thousands of facilities are required by regulation to monitor such effluents. The instrument will provide better analysis in much less time and at lower cost compared to present methods, and also will offer the ability to interface to automated systems
