| abstract |
Apparatus and process for preventing plugging of a reactor used in a system involving reaction between components, e.g. SO2, in a gas and a salt solution, e.g. a sulfite solution which is close to its saturation point, while avoiding substantial dilution of the sulfite solution to produce a spent bisulfite solution from which the bisulfite is subsequently separated and decomposed to release sulfur dioxide. Examples of sulfites include potassium, cesium, or rubidium sulfites. The apparatus includes a reaction zone having at least one, or more contact trays which are sprayed from beneath with the aqueous salt solution, e.g. sulfite solution. An entrainment zone above the trays can be used to advantage and this involves a woven mesh contact material which is sprayed from both sides with the salt solution to remove entrained materials from the gas leaving the reactor. Also, particulate solid or liquid-soluble gaseous contaminants can be removed from the gas before contacting it with the sulfite solution by contacting it with a fluid-permeable, impingement target in the presence of a concurrently flowing liquid stream which is also contacting the target. It is desirable to prevent plugging of the gas inlet opening to the reactor by using a bonnet arranged over the gas inlet opening. |