Analysis of pollutant emissions using calcium carbonate in the manufacture of ceramic materials

Abstract

Abstract In the research work, an isokinetic sampling of the evaluation of pollutant emissions to the atmosphere generated by a Hoffman continuous kiln was carried out in samples with two dosages, one composed of 100% clay and the other with 70% clay and 30% calcium carbonate. The methods for the evaluation of pollutant emissions in stationary sources were used and 3 runs were performed, and in each run 4 measurements were made every 15 minutes. The results in the emissions of the firing using calcium carbonate with respect to the samples composed of 100% clay reduced the discharges to the atmosphere by 7.30% in particulate matter, 20.18% in nitrogen oxides, 21.65% in sulfur dioxide, and 15.35% and 8.89% in hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acid respectively. The concentration of particulate material emitted to the environment in the two firing processes does not meet the permissible emission standard of less than 250 mg/mm3, while the other pollutants comply with Colombian environmental regulations. The use of fluxes for the manufacture of bricks reduced the concentrations of gases emitted into the environment decreasing possible health effects such as acute respiratory disease, eye irritation, and aggravation of heart disease.