Ceralink Inc. is applying Microwave Assist Technology? (MAT?) to the calcination oflimestone to demonstrate the potential for significant energy reduction in the manufacturing oflime. MAT? is a method to simultaneously apply traditional radiant heat and microwave energyin the same kiln, leading to fast volumetric product heating. Microwave thermal activationtargets and directly heats limestone, eliminating the reliance on thermal conduction as a means ofenergy transfer. In addition, less energy is wasted in heating non-product, such as the atmosphereand kiln lining. This paper includes studies of microwave materials interactions throughdielectric property measurements, and lab-scale microwave hybrid calcination tests. Thistechnology shows potential to increase the speed of lime production by enhancing the reactionrate, which will significantly reduced energy consumption. Production scale implementation ofMAT? calcining is projected to save trillions of BTU/yr in the lime and cement industries. Thiswork is supported through a Department of Energy Industrial Grand Challenge grant.
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