Ballestra S.p.A.

Exhaust Gas Treatment

Exhaust Gas Treatment Overview

Exhaust Gas Treatment

Exhaust gas exiting the sulphonation reactors undergoes two key treatment stages:

  • Organic Mist Elimination:
    Ballestra offers two highly efficient technological solutions:
    • New Generation Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP)
    • Wet Brink Filter (NEGT)
  • 2.SO₂ Reduction:
    Performed in an SO₂ scrubber using caustic soda or advanced oxidative scrubbing by hydrogen peroxide.

Organic Mist Elimination

New Generation Electrostatic Precipitator (ESP)
The latest ESP technology by Ballestra ensures superior performance, long operational life, and reduced maintenance.
Key Features:

  • Fixed Electrode Rods: Avoids rupture risks and improves durability.
  • Upper and Lower Fixation: Eliminates counter-weight issues and prevents electrode swinging.
  • Round-Shaped Tube Bundle: Optimizes gas speed and enhances lifespan with higher tube thickness.
  • Integrated Blowers: For upper insulators flushing, installed directly on top of the unit.
  • Dry Air Flushing: Prevents moisture condensation on lower insulators.
  • High-Voltage Transformer: Operates up to 60 kV, improving removal efficiency.
  • Smart Electronic Controller: Automatically adjusts voltage to optimize operating conditions.

Wet Brink Filter (NEGT)
The NEGT system offers a highly efficient alternative to ESP for organic mist removal, while enabling product recovery.
Key Features:

  • Multicartridge High-Efficiency Filters: Continuously washed with fresh organic raw material.
  • Sulphonic Acid Recovery: Captures carryover from exhaust gas, preventing waste.
  • Recovery of Organic Drippings: Allows recovery of drippings as finished product, optimizing production efficiency for LABS and MES.

Advantages:

  • Same removal performance as ESP.
  • Enhanced sustainability through product recovery.
  • Ideal for reducing waste and improving production yields.

SO₂ Removal and Final Scrubbing

Caustic Soda Scrubber (SO₂ Scrubber)
Exhaust gas is washed using a caustic soda solution, ensuring effective SO₂ neutralization and compliance with emissions standards.

Oxidative Scrubbing: Zero Sulphite Effluents
Ballestra's advanced oxidative scrubber leverages hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) for SO₂ reduction, simultaneously producing diluted sulfuric acid as a valuable byproduct.

Process Description:

  • SO₂ Conversion: H₂O₂ reacts with SO₂ inside the scrubber, forming H₂SO₄.
  • Continuous Recycling: H₂O₂ is continuously recycled within the scrubber to maximize efficiency.
  • H₂SO₄ Discharge: The sulfuric acid is discharged as a 30% aqueous solution, suitable for reuse or disposal.
  • Demisting: Exhaust gases pass through a special demister, preventing traces of SO₂ and organic matter from escaping into the atmosphere.

Key Benefits:

  • Achieves Zero Sulphite Effluents: Ensures compliance with wastewater regulations.
  • Byproduct Recovery: Converts pollutants into 30% sulfuric acid, adding economic value.
  • Environmental Compliance: Eliminates harmful SO₂ emissions and organic residues.

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Ballestra offers tailored exhaust gas treatment systems that ensure compliance with the strictest environmental standards, while maximizing sustainability through byproduct recovery and efficient operation.