Hydrated lime is an excellent desulfurization agent .
Hydrated lime is the product of adding water to quicklime in a vague amount proportional to the exothermic reaction of the two. Hydrated lime, also called calcium hydroxide, is used in many industries to neutralize the acidity of certain substances. It is also used in wastewater treatment processes to remove sulfur from the water. This process is called desulphurization and it is an important step in ensuring clean water.
This desulfurization process is achieved by using hydrated lime to absorb sulfurous gasses in the air. Hydrated lime reacts with sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide to form calcium sulfite and calcium sulfate, which are inert substances. Hydrated lime is also used to neutralize the acidity of acidulous soils, to clean the environment from contaminants from industrial process, to improve the efficiency of flue gas desulfurization, and coal fired power plants reduce the emissions of sulfur dioxide.
Hydrated lime is cheaper than other desulfurization agents, such as activated carbon, sodium bicarbonate, ammonium carbonate, etc. It is also a more efficient desulfurization agent since it can absorb large amounts of sulfur dioxide and hydrogen sulfide from flue gases. Additionally, hydrated lime has a high degree of reactivity; this property enables it to react quickly with the emitted gases, which in turn increases the efficiency of the desulphurization process. Moreover, hydrated lime is relatively safe to use, as it is not toxic and is not a hazardous material.
However, it is important to note that hydrated lime has some disadvantages. For instance, it has a tendency to clog the exhaust pipes of the desulphurization device, which can lead to a decrease in the efficiency of the device. Furthermore, the electrostatic filters which are used to purify air sometimes become jammed due to the formation of calcium sulfite. Finally, the desulfurization process often produces a lot of waste that must be properly disposed of.
In conclusion, hydrated lime is an effective desulfurization agent with several advantages, such as affordability and effectiveness. However, it also has some disadvantages that must be taken into consideration, such as clogging of exhaust pipes and formation of calcium sulfite. In spite of its limitations, hydrated lime is an attractive desulphurization agent for many industrial processes.
