Gasification technologies convert coal and biomass feedstocks into synthesis gas feed streams that can either be used as a fuel for highly efficient power generation cycles or converted into value-added chemicals and transportation fuels. However, the coal/biomass-derived synthesis gas contains a myriad of trace contaminants (e.g. mercury, arsenic, selenium) and ammonia (NH3) that must be removed to eliminate power plant emissions; NH3 will convert into NO_x in the gas turbine combustor (an acid rain precursor), while Hg is designated as an hazardous air pollutant and being regulated by the U.S. EPA. These contaminants also poison the catalysts used in the manufacturing processes that converts synthesis gas into fuels or chemicals.
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