What Role Do Catalysts Play in Industrial Emission Control?
In the industrial sector, catalysts are used in a variety of processes to minimize emissions. For example, selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is a process that reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from industrial flue gases. This method involves injecting ammonia or urea into the exhaust stream, where it reacts with NOx in the presence of a catalyst to form nitrogen and water. Catalysts are also employed in the desulfurization of fuels, which removes sulfur compounds and prevents the formation of sulfur dioxide (SO2), a major contributor to acid rain.