Parameters Contributing to the Formation of NOx in the Silicon Furnace: The effect of the charging frequency and raw material composition on the formation of NO

Abstract

NOx is a harmful gas emitted primarily by the transport industry, agriculture and petroleum industry. The emissions contribute to acid rain and global warming. The gas also has certain health risks; when exposed to NO-based pollution there can be higher risk of lung-cancer and the pollution gives an asthmatic reaction for asthmatics. As a consequence of the Gothenburg protocol, there has been established a ceiling for the emissions of NOx; Europe is to cut emissions by 41%. As a result of this protocol the industry in Norway has joined forces creating the ?NOx-fund?, which is an association providing support for research regarding reducing emissions. In Norway the silicon industry has the highest emissions yearly of the onshore industry, which means they have to contribute. In this project the mechanisms for formation of NO is investigated in an industrial silicon furnace and also in a pilot scale furnace.