Evaluating the potential of CNT-supported Co catalyst used for gas pollution removal in the incineration flue gas

This study investigated the use of Cu/Al2O3, Co/Al2O3, Fe/Al2O3, and Ni/Al2O3 catalysts for the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). These CNTs were used as support for Co catalyst preparation and Co/CNT catalysts were applied to a catalytic reaction to remove BTEX, PAHs, SO2, NO, and CO simultaneously in a pilot-scale incineration system. The analyzed results of EDS and XRD showed low metal content and good dispersion characteristics of the Al2O3-supported catalysts by excess-solution impregnation. FESEM analyzed results showed that the CNTs that were synthesized from Co, Fe, and Ni catalysts had a diameter of 20 nm, whereas those synthesized from Cu/Al2O3 had a diameter of 50 nm. Pilot-scale test results demonstrated that the Co/CNT catalyst effectively removed air pollutants in the catalytic reaction and that there was no obvious deactivation by Pb, water vapor, and coke deposited in the process. The thermal stabilization at 250 °C and hydrophobicity properties of CNTs enhanced the application of CNT catalysts in flue gas.