Archive for March, 2013

America’s Power: Learn More And Get Involved

Coal provides the economic foundation for millions of Americans across the country – whether it’s through employment or low energy prices.  When times are tough, it doesn’t make sense to add unreasonable  regulations that cause jobs to be lost and energy prices to increase for families and businesses.

The coal-based electricity industry is directly responsible for more than 550,000 America jobs: it gives peace-of-mind to small businesses that are struggling and high tech job opportunities for future graduates.  Americans need to continue to take advantage of this domestic resource so we can to pull out of these hard economic times.

The choices that we make now directly affect Americans.  Keep in mind that coal is the abundant, affordable resource that powers America. Learn more and get involved by clicking here.


“Like” and Share Information From Our Facebook Page

More than 371,000 fans of clean coal technology already have liked us on Facebook.  Have you?  Our Facebook page is an informative space to discuss developments in clean coal technology along with domestic and international progress in energy policy.

We always welcome a healthy discussion and debate regarding clean coal and the related technologies, but more importantly, we encourage fans to share their thoughts on a wide array of topics.  Topics include everything from current news regarding clean coal technology to updates about real people showing their support for coal-based electricity from all across the country.

If you are a regular reader of Behind the Plug, we look forward to you becoming a new fan of America’s Power on Facebook today.


21st Century Clean Coal Technology: Dry Sorbent Injection

Dry Sorbent Injection (DRI) achieves between 40 to 75% removal of Sulfur Dioxide and acid gases and is one of the numerous clean coal technologies that impact our daily lives.  According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, DSI systems remove hydrogen chloride (HCl) and other acid gases through two basic steps:

  • Step one. A powdered sorbent is injected into the flue gas—combustion exhaust gas exiting a power plant—where it reacts with the HCl. The sorbents most commonly associated with DSI are trona (sodium sesquicarbonate, a naturally occurring mineral mined in Wyoming), sodium bicarbonate, and hydrated lime.
  • Step two. The compound is removed by a downstream particulate matter control device such as an electrostatic precipitator (ESP) or a fabric filter (FF), also referred to as a baghouse. Fabric filters are generally more effective (when combined with DSI) than ESPs, with respect to overall HCl reduction. For modeling purposes, EPA estimate a DSI system with a fabric filter is expected to achieve 90% removal of HCl, while an ESP only achieves 60% removal, although actual performance will vary by individual plant.