NOxförbränningstekniker

NOxförbränning refers to the generation of nitrogen oxides (NOx) during the combustion of fuels. Nitrogen oxides are a group of gases primarily composed of nitric oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). These compounds are formed when the high temperatures and pressures present during combustion cause the nitrogen and oxygen molecules in the air to react.

The formation of NOx is highly dependent on temperature. Higher combustion temperatures lead to a greater rate of NOx formation. This is because the energy available at elevated temperatures is sufficient to overcome the strong bond in the nitrogen molecule (N2), allowing it to react with oxygen (O2). The primary mechanisms for NOx formation are thermal NOx, which is the dominant pathway at high temperatures, and fuel NOx, which arises from the oxidation of nitrogen present in the fuel itself. Prompt NOx, another mechanism, involves the rapid reaction of atmospheric nitrogen with hydrocarbon fragments in the flame zone.

NOx emissions are a significant concern due to their environmental and health impacts. In the atmosphere, NOx contributes to the formation of smog and acid rain. They are precursors to ozone formation in the troposphere, which can damage respiratory systems and harm vegetation. Furthermore, NOx can contribute to the formation of particulate matter, another air pollutant. Controlling NOx emissions from combustion processes is a key objective in air pollution control strategies, often achieved through methods like low-NOx burners, exhaust gas recirculation, and selective catalytic reduction.