rookgas

Rookgas is the term used in several European languages for the gaseous effluent produced when fuels are burned in combustion equipment such as boilers, furnaces, or internal combustion engines. The composition and properties of rookgas depend on the fuel and the level of excess air, but it typically consists mainly of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, with smaller amounts of oxygen and traces of other combustion products.

In addition, pollutant components may include carbon monoxide, sulfur oxides from sulfur-containing fuels, nitrogen oxides formed at high flame temperatures, and particulate matter from incomplete combustion or from ash in solid fuels. The exact mix varies with fuel type (gas, oil, coal, biomass) and operating conditions. Flue gas properties such as temperature and humidity also influence downstream treatment and energy recovery.

Rookgas is analyzed to monitor emissions and to recover energy. Analyzers measure oxygen, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, while temperature and flow rate are also recorded. Emission limits regulate its discharge, driving the use of gas-cleaning technologies and optimization of combustion efficiency.

Common treatments include particulate removal (electrostatic precipitators or baghouses), SO2 removal (wet or dry scrubbers), NOx reduction (selective catalytic or non-catalytic reduction), and heat recovery devices such as economizers to improve efficiency. In some facilities, rookgas is treated to enable CO2 capture for sequestration or utilization.

Environmental and safety considerations: rookgas can carry heat, toxic gases, and fine particulates; proper handling, venting, and equipment integrity are essential.