what is Fuel Gas Desulphurization (FGD)?

Fuel Gas Desulphurization (FGD)?

Why in News?

• Fuel Gas Desulphurization (FGD) has become increasingly important as India enforces stricter emission norms for coal-based power plants and industries.

• FGD systems are being installed to control Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) emissions, a major cause of air pollution and acid rain.

What is FGD?

Fuel Gas Desulphurization (FGD) is a process used to remove Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) from the exhaust gases of:

• Coal-fired power plants

• Industrial facilities using fossil fuels

SO₂ is a harmful gas that causes:

• Acid rain

• Respiratory problems

• Damage to crops and monuments

Why is FGD Important?

• India’s thermal power plants burn high-sulphur coal, leading to heavy SO₂ emissions.

• To comply with environmental regulations (MoEFCC & CPCB norms), FGD systems are essential.

• It helps India achieve goals under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP

How Does FGD Work?

Most Common Method: Wet Limestone FGD

1. Flue gas from the chimney is passed through an FGD scrubber.

2. A slurry of limestone (CaCO₃) is sprayed onto the gas.

3. Limestone reacts with SO₂ to form Gypsum (CaSO₄·2H₂O) or Calcium Sulphite (CaSO₃).

Types of FGD Systems

FGD in India: Current Scenario

• India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) made FGD mandatory for thermal power plants in 2015.

• NTPC and other power producers are now installing FGD systems across plants.

• Implementation is ongoing but faces delays due to costs and technical challenges.

Benefits of FGD

• Reduces SO₂ emissions

• Prevents acid rain

• Protects human health

• By-product gypsum can be used in the cement industry

Challenges of FGD

Conclusion:

FGD systems are vital for pollution control in coal-based power generation, especially as India moves toward cleaner air targets under NCAP. They are part of the solution to balance industrial growth with environmental responsibility.