Consequences of Coal Combustion

The KEMA TRACE MODEL is used to calculate and predict the consequences of coal combustion and co-firing of secondary fuels with respect to ash quality and emissions.

Predict the ash composition and emissions into air using the KEMA TRACE MODEL®
An agreement between the Dutch government and the power generating companies aims to reduce CO2 emissions by three million metric tonnes in 2008. KEMA developed a model to predict the ash composition and the emissions into air: the KEMA TRACE MODEL®. The KEMA TRACE MODEL® is an empirical and statistical model for prediction of the composition of outgoing streams of a coal-fired power plant. The model is developed on the basis of over 20 years of experience with mass balance studies at coal-fired power plants in the Netherlands, 16 mass balance studies conducted at 100 percent coal firing and over 25 mass balance studies conducted during co-firing of biomass and waste. The results of the model calculations give a good impression of the average composition of residues and emissions into the air. In 2006 an update of the model has been released (version 5.0).

Features
Calculation of the compositions of residues and flue gases of a coal-fired power plant comprising 4 main components, 10 macro elements and 36 micro and trace elements. Examination of the composition of bottom ashes according to the EWC (European Waste Catalogue) limits. In case of co-firing: an assessment is made of whether the ash is hazardous or non-hazardous waste. Examination of the composition of the flue gas emitted according to emission regulations EU Directive 2000/76/EC on the incineration of waste (WID).

Experience
The KEMA TRACE MODEL® is regularly used to calculate the consequences of coal firing and co-firing of secondary fuels with respect to ash quality and emissions. Results of model calculations are used in official documents in discussions with governmental authorities, in environmental impact statements and in license applications.