Sorbent inventory and particle size distribution in air-blown circulating fluidized

Attrition and fragmentation of limestone during FB combustion of sulphur-bearing fuels have a profound influence on sorbent inventory and particle size distribution establishing at steady state in the bed. A population balance model is presented aiming at the prediction of the inventory and of the particle size distribution of sorbent particles establishing at steady state in the bed of an air-blown CFBC. The core of the model is represented by a population balance equation on sorbent particles which embodies terms expressing the extent/rate of each attrition/fragmentation process. The effect of the progress of sulphation on attrition/fragmentation is also taken into account. Constitutive equations needed to quantify attrition/fragmentation are developed on the basis of published data. Model results are presented and discussed with the aim of clarifying the influence of particle attrition/fragmentation on sorbent inventory and particle size distribution in a CFBC and on the closely related variables. Research needs and priorities within the specific field of investigation are also discussed.