The Single Absorption – Scrubbing Sulfuric Acid Process

The AE&C single absorption–scrubbing process has long been an alternate to double absorption for the production of sulfuric acid. In recent years regulatory pressure to reduce SO2 emissions from sulfuric acid plants to 1.0-1.25 pounds of SO2 per ton of acid produced (to about 120 PPM) or less coupled with the increased value of energy has enhanced the desirability of the single absorption–scrubbing process. The process offers lower capital cost, lower SO2 emissions, faster start-ups in compliance, increased steam production and reduced energy consumption (main blower horsepower) compared to double absorption.