Scrubber System: A Sustainable Solution for Emission Control
In recent years, environmental concerns have prompted a
global push towards cleaner and more sustainable practices. Industries that
contribute to air pollution, particularly shipping and manufacturing, have come
under scrutiny. To address these issues, scrubber systems have emerged as an
effective technology for reducing harmful emissions. This essay explores the
concept of scrubber systems, their working principles, top impacting factors,
and relevant government policies promoting their adoption.
Scrubber System: An
Overview
Scrubber systems, also known as exhaust gas cleaning
systems, are devices designed to remove harmful pollutants from exhaust gases
generated by various industrial processes. They find extensive use in marine
vessels and industrial facilities that burn fossil fuels, releasing sulfur
dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and particulate matter (PM) into the
atmosphere.
Working Principles of
Scrubber Systems
Scrubber systems operate on different principles, but the
most common types are:
Wet Scrubbers: These systems use water or other neutralizing
chemicals to wash pollutants from the exhaust gases. The gas stream is passed
through a chamber where it comes into contact with the liquid, allowing the
pollutants to be absorbed.
Dry Scrubbers: Dry scrubbers use chemical adsorption or
absorption to remove pollutants without using liquid. They are ideal for
facilities where water usage is restricted.
Top Impacting Factors
on Scrubber System Efficiency
Several factors influence the effectiveness of scrubber
systems:
- Fuel Type: Different scrubber systems are designed to handle
specific fuel types. The fuel's sulfur content directly affects the efficiency
of the scrubber in reducing SO2 emissions.
- System Type and Size: The type and size of the scrubber
system are crucial factors. Larger vessels and facilities may require more
extensive scrubber installations to handle higher emission volumes.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing are vital to
ensure the scrubber's optimal performance and longevity.
- Compliance Regulations: Stringent regulations regarding
emissions from industrial processes drive the adoption of scrubber systems.
Compliance with these regulations can lead to significant cost savings in the
form of avoided fines and penalties.
Government Policies
Promoting Scrubber System Adoption
Governments worldwide have recognized the importance of
reducing emissions and have implemented policies to incentivize the adoption of
scrubber systems:
- International Maritime Organization (IMO): IMO's MARPOL
Annex VI regulation sets limits on vessel emissions and allows compliance
through the use of scrubber technology or low-sulfur fuels.
- Emission Control Areas (ECAs): Several regions have
established ECAs to limit emissions from vessels within designated zones.
Scrubber systems enable ships to continue using high-sulfur fuels while complying
with ECA requirements.
- Subsidies and Tax Incentives: Some countries offer financial
incentives such as tax credits or subsidies to companies investing in scrubber
technology.
The Future of
Scrubber Systems
The demand for scrubber systems is expected to grow as
industries strive to achieve sustainability targets. Advancements in scrubber
technology, such as hybrid systems combining wet and dry scrubbing, will
enhance efficiency and reduce operational costs.
Dynamics of Scrubber System Market
Drivers in Scrubber
System Market
Government-Enforced Air Pollution Prevention Policies
Driving Market Growth
The importance of environmental protection laws and mandates
is increasing worldwide to mitigate the impact of industrial emissions. These
standards aim to promote the use of non-toxic substances, modify production
processes, and implement conservation techniques. Additionally, they encourage
material reuse and recycling to reduce pollution. Notably, North America and
Europe have been early adopters of such environmental protection laws. In the
United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plays a key role in
controlling pollution through regulations like the Pollution Prevention Act,
Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and National Environmental Policy Act. The
Clean Air Act specifically focuses on regulating air emissions to safeguard
public health and control hazardous air pollutants. Similarly, the Clean Water
Act regulates the discharge of pollutants into water bodies. These stringent
policies and regulations are observed by developed economies across the globe,
contributing to the anticipated growth of the market. Furthermore, industries
are increasingly adopting scrubber systems to comply with these norms, which
not only save on labor costs but also enhance revenue generation by reducing
the time and labor required for exhaust system cleaning.
The European Union (EU) is also committed to achieving
desired levels of air quality to protect human health and the environment.
Europe's air quality emission norms emphasize continuous monitoring and
assessment of ambient air quality. Moreover, large-scale industrial installations
in Europe are required to obtain operational permits for environmental
protection. In Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa, developing countries
are setting up various environmental emission norms to combat pollution.
To meet these norms, industries are turning to scrubber
systems, which effectively neutralize corrosive gases and dust. These scrubber
systems are designed for various applications in chemical, pharmaceutical, and
surface treatment industries. The rising demand for scrubber systems is driven
by the stringent emission control regulations imposed by governments, which are
expected to propel the growth of the scrubber systems market.
Restraints in
Scrubber System Market
Stringent Regulatory Policies for Scrubber System Effluent Disposal
The operation and cleaning of wet exhaust gas scrubbers for
marine diesel engines and boilers result in effluent (washwater) generation
that requires treatment before discharge. The washwater from scrubbers contains
gaseous and particulate emissions that have been removed from the exhaust.
These emissions, like SOx and NOx, react in the scrubber effluent to form
sulfuric and nitric acids, leading to a significant reduction in the effluent's
pH level. Unfortunately, the use of scrubbers can cause environmental
degradation due to short-term and spatially limited pH reduction, increased
temperature and turbidity, and the discharge of certain persistent materials.
In 2008, the International Maritime Organization (IMO)
established stringent regulations to control exhaust emissions from ocean-going
vessels' engines. As an alternative to operating on low-sulfur fuel, IMO
introduced guidelines for using exhaust gas cleaning devices, such as SOx
scrubbers. The Guidelines for Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) Section 10
specifies scrubber-effluent monitoring and discharge criteria. According to IMO
recommendations, pH, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) concentration,
turbidity, and temperature should be continuously monitored and recorded when
EGCS is operated in ports, harbors, or estuaries.
Opportunities in
Scrubber System Market
The enforcement of the global sulfur cap limit by IMO in
2020 has ushered in significant opportunities for the scrubber system market.
Ships operating outside designated emission control areas must adhere to the
new 0.50% m/m sulfur limit in fuel oil, leading to a surge in demand for
exhaust gas cleaning systems, known as scrubber systems. These systems
effectively reduce sulfur oxides emissions, enabling ships to continue using heavy
fuel oil while complying with the stringent regulations. As of July 2020, 2,359
scrubber systems have been reported to IMO as approved "equivalent
methods," offering promising prospects for scrubber system market players
during the forecast period.
Challenges in
Scrubber System Market
The implementation of MARPOL 2020 and the shift towards
compliant marine fuels have introduced challenges for vessel owners. With a
displacement of over 95% of the current market, selecting suitable compliant
marine fuels is crucial. Very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) has emerged as a new
fuel option, driven by economic incentives. Additionally, ultra-low sulfur fuel
oil (ULSFO), designed by Shell Plc, presents a viable option for both main and
auxiliary engines. As the industry adapts to the changing landscape, the
availability and compatibility of substitute fuel oils like VLSFO and ULSFO
remain key challenges to overcome.
Ecosystem of Scrubber System Market
The wet scrubber system segment, categorized by product
type, is anticipated to experience the highest Compound Annual Growth Rate
(CAGR) during the projected period. Forecasts suggest that the wet scrubber
system segment will record a CAGR of 6.4% during this time frame. Wet scrubbers
are known for their effectiveness as air pollution control devices capable of
collecting both particulates and gases within a single system. Modern wet
scrubbing systems boast an impressive contaminant removal efficiency, capable
of eliminating up to 95% of pollutants.
Two primary types of scrubber systems are dry and wet
scrubbers. Wet systems are particularly suitable for cleaning fuel gas and air,
as well as other gases laden with multiple pollutants and particles. They
operate by allowing the scrubbing solution to come into contact with the
particulate matter or target compounds. This scrubbing solution can consist of
water or reagents designed to target specific compounds effectively. Among air
pollution control systems, wet scrubbers are widely regarded as the most efficient
for gathering both gases and particulates. Venturi, packed bed, and spray
scrubbers are common sub-divisions of wet scrubbers. The growing demand from
the shipping sector to comply with new gas emission regulations is expected to
drive the scrubber system market.
Conversely, the dry scrubber system does not involve
moistening the treated flue gas stream; instead, it focuses on eliminating
acidic gases from combustible sources. A series of dry reactants are introduced
to the gas stream at high speed, completing the process in three steps: reagent
injection, filtering, and gas cooling. Dry scrubbers can be further segmented
into dry sorbent injectors and dry spray absorbers. Dry scrubbing is widely
accepted as an environmentally friendly approach. The removal of harmful
substances from exhaust gases is crucial in preventing numerous pollutants from
being released into the air. Dry scrubbers are commonly preferred over their
counterparts due to their ability to produce lesser waste material and by-products.
Most of the material sprayed into the exhaust is either captured in a filter or
incinerated by the heat.
Electrostatic precipitators (ESPs) are a vital component of
advanced scrubber systems, providing unparalleled air pollution control. These
cutting-edge devices utilize electrostatic forces to capture particulate matter
and harmful pollutants, ensuring cleaner emissions. The combination of
scrubbers with ESPs allows industries to achieve exceptional compliance with
environmental regulations, enhancing air quality, productivity, and
sustainability. Embracing this eco-friendly solution reinforces a commitment to
environmental stewardship.
The Horizontal Scrubber System segment is expected to be the
most significant and revolutionary technology for emission control in various
industries. With a horizontal design, this innovative system offers improved
gas-liquid interaction, ensuring efficient pollutant removal. Its compact and
versatile nature allows easy integration into existing infrastructure, reducing
installation costs. By minimizing emissions and meeting stringent environmental
regulations, the Horizontal Scrubber System promotes sustainability and
enhances operational efficiency. Embracing this eco-friendly solution paves the
way for a cleaner and greener future, facilitating responsible and sustainable
growth.
By end-user industry, the marine segment is projected to be
the most significant contributor to the scrubber system market during the
forecast period. The scrubber system market has been segmented into various
end-user industries, including marine, oil & gas, metal & mining, power
generation, chemical & petrochemical, food, beverage & agriculture,
glass, pharmaceutical, water & wastewater treatment, and others. The marine
segment is expected to dominate during the forecast period due to the
International Maritime Organization's (IMO) global sulfur cap of 0.5% on marine
fuels and stringent shipping emissions regulations introduced in 2020. This is
the primary driving force behind the increased demand for exhaust gas cleaning
technology, such as Sox scrubbers, in the marine segment.
Regional Insights
Asia Pacific is expected to maintain its dominance in the
scrubber system market during the forecast period, followed by Europe and North
America. The region's significant market size can be attributed to government
regulations and mandates aimed at reducing pollution.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) has implemented strict restrictions on the direct emission of hazardous
gases into the environment. As a result, numerous companies and marine
operators are increasingly adopting scrubber systems to comply with EPA
regulations. Additionally, the expansion of industries driven by extensive
E&P activities, the shale gas revolution, and high energy demand is likely
to further boost the demand for scrubber systems in North America.
Within the European Union (EU), environmental consciousness
prevails, leading to the enforcement of stringent regulations to enhance air
quality. To prevent the emission of harmful materials into the environment, the
EU has established various guidelines for industries and marine operators.
Consequently, scrubber systems play a vital role in helping meet the EU's 2020
targets, thereby fostering growth in the scrubber system market in Europe.
As an emerging region with rapid economic growth and
lucrative opportunities for industrialists, Asia Pacific is attracting
considerable attention. The Indian government's ambition to achieve a 5
trillion-dollar economy by 2024 is driving various ambitious projects. In
parallel, China is heavily investing in energy security. However, concerns over
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and rising sea levels are prompting stringent
measures. This, in turn, is expected to create a lucrative market for scrubber
systems in the region.
Dominating Companies in Scrubber System Market
- ALFA LAVAL
- WÄRTSILÄ
- GEA
- BABCOCK & WILCOX
- VALMET
- FUJI ELECTRIC
- CECO ENVIRONMENTAL
- ANDRITZ AG
- DUKE ENERGY
- BRENNTAG
- NEDERMAN
- PACIFIC GREEN TECHNOLOGIES
- VERANTIS ENVIRONMENTAL SOLUTIONS GROUP
- YARA MARINE TECHNOLOGIES
- POLLUTION SYSTEMS
- SCHUTTE & KOERTING
- KCH
- TRI-MER CORPORATION
- HITACHI ZOSEN INOVA
- CR CLEAN AIR
- ERGIL
- ANGUIL ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS, INC.
- THERMAX
Recent Developments in Scrubber System Market
- In 2019, Company A, a leading manufacturer of marine
scrubber systems, announced the acquisition of Company B, a prominent
engineering firm specializing in emission control technologies. This strategic
merger allowed Company A to enhance its product portfolio and expand its market
presence, positioning it as a dominant player in the marine scrubber industry.
- During the same year, Company C, a major player in the
maritime industry, acquired Company D, a scrubber system installation and
maintenance service provider. By integrating Company D's expertise, Company C
aimed to offer a comprehensive package of scrubber solutions to its customers,
further solidifying its position in the market.
- In 2020, Company E, a scrubber system manufacturer, and
Company F, a global shipping company, announced a strategic partnership to
promote sustainable shipping practices. Through this collaboration, Company F
committed to installing Company E's advanced scrubber systems on its fleet,
enabling compliance with emissions regulations while reducing its environmental
footprint.
- During the same period, Company G, a maritime engineering
firm specializing in environmental solutions, formed a partnership with Company
H, a leading scrubber technology developer. Together, they aimed to design and
implement innovative scrubber systems tailored to specific vessel types,
ensuring optimal performance and compliance for their clients.
Scrubber systems play a pivotal role in curbing air
pollution and promoting sustainable industrial practices. These systems
effectively reduce harmful emissions, aligning with international regulations
and government policies focused on environmental preservation. As technology
evolves, scrubber systems will continue to be a vital component of the global
effort to combat climate change and create a cleaner and healthier future.
1.
Research Sources
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detailed and related research methodology focussed on estimating the market
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Research Methodology
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