AGR technology transforms gas heaters into eco‑friendly powerhouses
There is always room for improvement, even for gas heaters, which can be made more eco-friendly and safer. This is achievable with a small, inexpensive, and simple device offering an interesting alternative to popular heat pumps.
Gas heaters and condensing boilers are already considered clean heating solutions, yet they still emit some pollutants. These substances affect the environment, negatively impacting soil, water, and air. Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in Tennessee have found a way to reduce these emissions. They have demonstrated a device that is efficient and affordable, as reported by the Chemical Engineering Journal.
Ultraclean gas heater
The team from ORNL has developed a technology called AGR (acidic gas reduction), which eliminates more than 99.9% of acidic gases, including nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and methane. This device with AGR technology can be installed in industrial and domestic gas heaters, boilers, and water heaters.
Tests were conducted on a standard market-available condensing boiler by installing a device using AGR for approximately 400 hours. The results were surprising – over 99.9% eliminated potentially harmful gases without any negative impact on the device.
This device removes 99.9 percent of potentially harmful gases
The application of AGR technology nearly completely removes harmful emissions, and as a result of this process, a neutral pH condensate is produced. This eliminates the need for corrosion-resistant materials, leading to lower production costs. Scientists believe that this will enhance the sales of high-efficiency heaters and boilers, benefiting both the environment and people.
According to the ORNL team, AGR technology is easy for users to manage. Heaters with this device require maintenance every three years. The used AGR component can be replaced by oneself or with the help of a technician, similar to gas cylinders.
