N2O formation during coal combustion in fluidised beds - Is it controlled by homogeneous or heterogeneous reactions?

This paper discusses the results of the experimental work undertaken to determine the N2O and NO emissions from fluidised bed combustion. First, studies were carried out to measure the amounts of both NO and N2O formed during the combustion of bituminous coals and that chars prepared from the same coals. Second, the combustion of the volatiles released during the devolatilisation of coals was investigated and the N2O and NO emissions were measured. The analysis of HCN and NH3 in volatiles was also undertaken. From our results, a better understanding of the issue of homogeneous reactions versus those of heterogeneous for the formation of N2O is achieved.