Atmospheric Pollution and Air Emissions Treatment

Not applicable

The lecture (T) classes will focus on the theoretical foundations resorting, whenever possible, to the presentation of practical examples, and the practical (TP) classes in solving questions and application problems. In the TP classes, after a general discussion of the presented questions and problems, the students are encouraged to proceed with its resolution, followed by a discussion of the most suitable solutions at the end of the class.

This curricular unit provides the students with knowledge about the main problems associated with air pollution and the most common processes for treating gaseous effluents. After an introduction to the atmospheric pollution problematic, the main pollutants are identified and the main gaseous effluent treatment systems are described.

It is intended that at the end of this course, the students: i) are aware of, and understand, the main threats in terms of air pollution; ii) identify and recognize the effect of the main air pollutants with anthropogenic origin; iii) identify and understand the operation of the main systems for controlling industrial emissions to the atmosphere; iv) know the main legal requirements regarding air pollution.

1. Main environmental problems associated with air pollution

Main environmental problems, contaminants and effects on the environment: emission of greenhouse gases, ozone layer depletion, acid deposition, photochemical pollution, particulate matter, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds.

2. Air quality, environmental legislation and analysis methods

Air quality indicators. Environmental legislation on air and gaseous effluents. Transport in the atmosphere. Industrial sampling and analysis methods.

3. Wastewater treatment systems

Description of equipment and main features: particulate removal systems, physicochemical and biological gas pollutant treatment systems. Advantages, industrial wastewater treatment applications and costs.

NAO

1. Amaral, A.L. (2001). Course documentation. ISEC (available in InforEstudante).

2. Schnelle Jr., K.B, Brown, C.A. (2002). Air pollution control technology handbook. CRC Press. ISBN 0-8493-9588-7

3. Perkins, H.C. (1974). Air pollution. New York: Mc Graw-Hill (available at ISEC library: 7-12-10).

4. Cheremisinoff, N.P. (2002). Handbook of air pollution prevention and control. Elsevier. ISBN 0-7506-7499-7

5. de Nevers (2000). Air Pollution Control Engineering. Waveland Press, Inc.

6. European IPPC Bureau. (2003). Reference Document on Best Available Techniques in Common Waste Water and Waste Gas Treatment/Management Systems in the Chemical Sector. Sevilha: Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control.

7. Seinfeld, J.H. (1978). Contaminación atmosférico: fundamentos físicos y químicos. Madrid: Instituto de Estudios de Administración Local.