Design and production of Hg⁰ calibrator, Hg²⁺ calibrator, and Hg²⁺ to Hg⁰ converter for a continuous Hg emission monitor

Hg calibration and conversion systems, which are integral parts of a continuous emission monitor for were designed, produced, and tested. First, both Hg⁰ and Hg²⁺ calibrators showed less than 10% difference between measured and theoretical values. Next, a Hg²⁺ to Hg⁰ thermal converter with a scrubber and heated gas lines showed a conversion efficiency higher than 95%. Finally, the laboratory-prepared Hg converter was tested at a full-scale medical waste incinerator. The Ontario Hydro Method was used for measurement and speciation of Hg. The results showed that the laboratory-prepared Hg converter was highly effective with highest conversion efficiency close to 94%.