Influence Factors on PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ Emissions in Iron Ore Sintering Process

Abstract

Influences of factors on PM_10/2.5 (particulate matters less than 10/2.5 µm in aerodynamic) emission in iron ore sintering process have been investigated using a lab-scale sinter pot. Research findings show that increasing moisture content contributes to decreasing the emission concentration of PM_10/2.5 due to the stronger scrubbing effect of over-wetted layer; increasing coke breeze rate would increase the generation of PM_10/2.5 since more trace elements are volatilized and conversed into particle phase. Prolonging granulation time can improve the mechanical strength of granules and also restrain the removal of volatile trace elements to particulate matter, which enables to reduce PM_10/2.5 emissions. The utilization of recycling materials remarkably enhances PM_10/2.5 emissions for more fine particles (<10/2.5 µm) are brought in and more volatile trace elements are entrained into particulate matters. Taking sintering indexes into consideration, applying recycling materials wisely or adding solid sorbents serve as more prospective approaches than merely regulating process parameters. This information is able to guide the development of in-bed controlling techniques for reducing PM_10/2.5 emissions.