In industrial production, desulfurization is a critical process for reducing sulfur dioxide emissions, widely used in coal-fired power plants, steel smelting, and chemical manufacturing. However, foam formation during desulfurization often affects efficiency and can even lead to equipment malfunctions or safety hazards. The emergence of specialized desulfurization defoamers has provided an effective solution, making them an essential additive in modern industrial desulfurization systems.

The causes of foam in desulfurization are varied. On one hand, desulfurization slurry contains surface-active substances such as limestone and gypsum, which can form stable foam layers under agitation and gas scouring. On the other hand, high-speed airflow and gas generated by chemical reactions inside the desulfurization tower further exacerbate foam formation. This foam not only occupies reaction space but can also lead to slurry overflow, pump cavitation, and even system shutdowns in severe cases. Desulfurization defoamers work by destabilizing foam structures, quickly eliminating harmful foam and ensuring stable system operation.

The formulation of desulfurization defoamers is a precise science. High-performance defoamers typically consist of active ingredients, carriers, and additives. The active ingredients—such as polyether-modified silicone oils, mineral oils, and polyethers—rapidly reduce surface tension and break foam films. Carriers (e.g., water-soluble alcohols or esters) help disperse the active ingredients evenly in the slurry, while additives (e.g., anti-settling agents, antioxidants) enhance adaptability and durability in harsh conditions. This composite formulation ensures effectiveness in high-temperature, high-alkalinity, and high-solid-content environments.

In practical applications, the dosing method significantly impacts defoamer performance. Common approaches include continuous dosing (for persistent foam issues) and intermittent shock dosing (for periodic foam outbreaks). Continuous dosing uses metering pumps to inject defoamers slowly into the slurry circulation system, while shock dosing applies concentrated amounts when foam levels rise. Best practices suggest diluting defoamers (typically 5-10 times) for better dispersion, with injection points preferably located in high-turbulence zones for rapid mixing.

Evaluating defoamer performance involves multiple criteria:

• Defoaming speed (effective within seconds)

• Foam suppression duration (lasting hours without re-foaming)

• Adaptability (stability across varying pH, temperature, and solid content)

• Compatibility (no adverse reactions with other chemicals)

Environmental considerations are now paramount. With tightening regulations, biodegradability and low toxicity have become key benchmarks. Leading manufacturers now offer defoamers based on renewable materials, free from heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), aligning with global sustainability goals.

Economically, while high-quality defoamers may have a higher unit cost, their long-lasting effects reduce overall consumption and maintenance expenses. Case studies show that optimized defoamer use can improve desulfurization efficiency by 15%+, saving hundreds of thousands annually by minimizing downtime and equipment wear.

Looking ahead, innovations like nanotechnology and smart responsive defoamers (releasing active ingredients on demand) promise further advancements. As desulfurization technologies evolve (e.g., semi-dry/bio-desulfurization), defoamer formulations will adapt, reinforcing their role in enabling cleaner industrial production.