Hot coal-gas desulfurization with manganese-based sorbents

Manganese based hot-gas-desulfurization sorbents are under investigation for use in Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle advanced electric-power-generation systems. The objective of this project is to develop a regenerable Mn-based pellet formulation that can achieve low sulfur partial pressures, has a high capacity for sulfur and sufficient strength for potential use in fluidized beds, and can be regenerated for many cycles. Fifteen different formulations of manganese sesquioxide, each with either titania or alumina, were prepared and characterized at the University of Minnesota. Each formulation was indurated under conditions sufficient to achieve 1 lb/pellet/mm of diameter crush strength. Sulfidation screening was performed in a thermogravimetric analyzer at 500 to 900 C. A sorbent containing MnCO{sub 3} and TiO{sub 2}, which showed superior crush strength and reactivity, was selected for multi-cycle fixed-bed testing at the Morgantown Energy Technology Center. Four cycles of sulfidation showed that the sorbent had excellent efficiency and capacity for sulfur removal. Good regenerability was achieved with air-steam at 871 C