Power plants reduce sulfur emissions with flue gas scrubbers, which is crucial for atmospheric and environmental protection. Sulfur emissions, such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂), can lead to acid rain and harm both vegetation and water bodies. Flue gas scrubbers, part of power plants’ gas cleaning systems, help bind sulfur dioxide and convert it into a less harmful form.
One method for removing sulfur dioxide is to capture it with magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂), producing magnesium sulfate (MgSO₄), effectively removing sulfur in the form of sulfate. Magnesium hydroxide is an effective reagent because it neutralizes sulfur dioxide and binds it as sulfate. This approach is environmentally friendly, as it reduces air pollution and produces a useful byproduct.
The resulting magnesium sulfate solution can be recycled and reused in other processes requiring sulfate. This recycling process conserves natural resources. Magnesium sulfate can be utilized, for example, as a fertilizer. Recycling helps reduce chemical consumption and the environmental impact of production. Using magnesium hydroxide in power plants to control sulfur emissions promotes circular economy principles and supports sustainable development by conserving resources and reducing environmental burdens.