Oxygen Combustion in Cement Production

Abstract The cement industry faces a unique challenge in reducing greenhouse gas emissions owing to the large amount, 5% of global total, of process emissions originating from the calcination of limestone. Oxygen combustion is considered the most promising technological option as the energy penalty for capturing the CO2 is only associated with the fuel, as opposed to post combustion capture where sorbent regeneration is required for both fuel and process CO2. While more attractive, the implementation of oxygen combustion and the necessary flue gas recycling, will alter process conditions. As a result, significant research is required to produce a viable design for the complete conversion to oxygen combustion. The conversion will require modifications to every component of the plant with the exception of the quarry and finish grinding sections. The plant boundary will also expand to include an oxygen production facility and a CO2 compression station. While the cost of the additions can be quantified, the final cost will be a balance between the modifications and revenues from increased production.