Preconference Workshops
Mercury Measurement, Transformations, Speciation, and Control
September 21, 2003

Three 2-hour preconference workshops were offered prior to the conference and were given by researchers at the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC).

Workshop 1 - Mercury Sampling and Measurement 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Sampling and measuring mercury species in combustion flue gases are challenging. This workshop will provide information on issues and experience related to conducting mercury sampling and measurement at full-scale power plants. Techniques and methods for sampling and measurement will be discussed. The measurement techniques will include standard wet chemical methods and continuous mercury analyzers to determine the abundance and forms of mercury in the flue gases.
Workshop 2 - Mercury Transformations and Speciation 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Mercury transformations and speciation are impacted by coal composition and system conditions. This workshop will provide detailed information on the impact of fuel composition on the mercury forms in flue gases. The workshop will also discuss options being investigated to change the form of mercury in the flue gas to improve the potential for control in existing air pollution control devices.
Workshop 3 - Mercury Control and Modeling 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Numerous mercury control technologies are being investigated to control mercury emissions from coal-fired combustion systems. The technology options that will be addressed as part of this workshop include coal cleaning, sorbent injection, mercury oxidation upstream of wet and dry scrubbers, and novel technologies. In addition, information will be presented on computer modeling of mercury speciation and control.

Workshop Presenters

  • Dr. Steven A. Benson, an EERC Senior Research Manager, has performed research on inorganic transformations and ash behavior during combustion and gasification for the past 25 years. He currently develops projects and programs focused on power plant performance, environmental control systems, the fate of pollutants, computer modeling, and health issues.

  • Mr. Michael J. Holmes, an EERC Senior Research Advisor, is involved in research in a range of areas, including emission control (air toxics, SO2, NOx, H2S, and particulate), fuel processing for production of syngas and feed gas for fuel cells, and process development and economics for advanced energy systems.

  • Mr. Dennis L. Laudal, an EERC Senior Research Advisor, is involved in program development related to mercury control and measurement. He is considered a leading expert on continuous emission monitors for mercury. He is also involved in particulate measurement and control of SO2, NOx, and air toxics.