Atmospheric particulate matter, design

TABLE 2—Design guidelines for atmospheric particulate matter."... 

Air Filters The types of equipment previously described are intended primarily for the collection of process dusts, whereas air filters comprise a variety of filtration devices designed for the collec tion of particulate matter at low concentrations, usually atmospheric dust. The difference in the two categories of equipment is not in the principles of operation but in the adaptations required to deal with the dif-... 

In a continuous reformer, some particulate and dust matter can be generated as the catalyst moves from reactor to reactor and is subject to attrition. However, due to catalyst design little attrition occurs, and the only outlet to the atmosphere is the regeneration vent, which is most often scrubbed with a caustic to prevent emission of hydrochloric acid (this also removes particulate matter). Emissions of carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulfide may occur during regeneration of catalyst. 

SOx can react with other compounds in the atmosphere to form small particles. These small particles penetrate deeply into sensitive parts of the lungs and can cause or worsen respiratory disease and aggravate existing heart disease. EPAs NAAQS for particulate matter (PM) are designed to provide protection against these health effects. 

The Clean Air Act (CAA) limits the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere and protects human health and the environment from the effects of airborne pollution. The EPA established National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for several substances. The NAAQS provide the public some protection from toxic air pollutants. Primary responsibility for meeting the requirements of the CAA rests with each state. States must submit plans for achieving NAAQS compliance. Under section 112 of the CAA, the EPA has the authority to designate hazardous air pollutants and set national emission standards for hazardous air pollutants. Common air pollutants include the following (1) ozone, (2) nitrogen dioxide, (3) carbon monoxide, (4) particulate matter, and (5) sulfur dioxide. 

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