Catalytic Recuperation Oxidizer (CATOX)
Catalytic Oxidizer eliminates volatile organic compounds (VOCs), hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) and odorous emissions at significantly lower temperatures through the use of catalyst thus converting the pollutants into CO2, H2O, and usable heat. Similar to the catalytic oxidizer above, the recuperative version operates at much lower temperature, 426 -482 °C, but it also incorporates an air-to-air heat exchanger to preheat the incoming air. There are two types of catalytic oxidizers: regenerative catalytic oxidizers (RCOs) and recuperative catalytic oxidizers. RCOs use beds of ceramic material to store and release thermal energy by reversing the process gas through alternate beds. Recuperative units use an internal gas to gas heat exchanger to continuously recover heat. RCOs are generally more energy efficient than recuperative units. However, sometimes it may be best to use the recuperative approach, especially when the VOC concentration in the gas stream is high. Conversely, when the VOC concentration is low, the RCO may be the more economical choice.
Stage of Life Cycle
Products and Processes
GHG Reduction Potential
Catalytic oxidizers achieve high VOC destruction efficiency by heating the polluted airstream and maintaining it at a temperature of typically 315 to 345°C for a set 'dwell' time as it passes through catalyst material. The use of a catalytic oxidizer results in much lower fuel consumption than thermal recuperative oxidizers. VOC destruction efficiency can reach 99% or higher. Catalytic oxidizers can operate with or without an integral heat exchanger. Using an integral heat exchanger can save on fuel costs, while not using one can save on capital costs. Also, by converting from Regenerated Thermal Oxidatytion (RTO) to RCO, a 50% reduction in fuel usage can achieved leading to increase energy efficiency.
Solution Maturity Status
Well established:
This technology has been operating for a number of years and is well-known/ successful in its industry or market.