Use of oxygen in cement and lime production and development of new radar based measurement technology in shaft kilns

Important results from the project

The goals for WP1 were 1) development of a process model for quicklime and cement clinker production and 2) optimizing oxygen use in quicklime and cement clinker processes with regards to costs, emissions and quality. WP1 has developed an adapted model for quicklime process, but adaption to cement clinker was not completed within the project timeframe. Purpose of project was to create options for reduced environmental impact with the quicklime production process. This can be achieved by developing radio measurement technology that enables real-time control of shaft furnaces.

Expected long term effects

The study shows that oxyfuel applied to quicklime will give lower energy demands, emissions and with a CCS network 100 % CO2-reduction is possible. The use of oxygen can reduce quick lime energy demands by 30% and cement clinker by 10%. In addition, the use of biofuel is possible. Radio measurements show relationship between active CaO and radio signals. Radio metrics can be used as control parameters for producing quicklime. Installing the equipment on a shaft kiln, optimized energy consumption and emission control are expected.

Approach and implementation

Technology development requires time and WP1 has not successfully completed the planned work within project timeframes. WP2 measurements were done in a laboratory furnace; radio signals and calcination were recorded. Radio equipment was installed on a shaft kiln. Reference calcination analyses and radio measurements went better than expected and continued for four months. In-kind industrial contribution exceed budget. There is a correlation between radio signals and chemical reference data. Measurements on laboratory furnace and shaft furnace correlated well.