N2O Emissions in HNO3 Production

Abstract

The sources of N₂O emissions are reviewed and compared with the N₂O formation in HNO₃ production plants. The current and new methods of controlling emissions from HNO₃ production are discussed. The methods involve homogeneous decomposition of N₂O in the combustion burner zone for oxidation of ammonia and nonselective catalytic reduction of NO_x and N₂O in the tail gases. The latter methods include catalytic decomposition of N₂O in the ammonia oxidation chamber and that of NO_x and N₂O located at the inlet to the expansion turbine.