Assessing the Clean Air Act's impact on emission-control technology

The Clean Air Act of 1977 was adopted to attain air-quality standards by using a technological system of continuous emission control, and to strengthen EPA mandates regarding new-source performance standards. EPA proposed standards for sulfur dioxide emissions include an 85% reduction on a 24 hour basis, a 0.2 lb/million Btu maximum control level, and particulate removal standards. Pollution-control options and related costs are discussed, and precipitator upgrading tech emission standards with present technology it may be difficult to meet the SO2 and particulate removal standards simultaneously. Flue gas desulfurization and dry scrubber systems are analyzed. (2 graphs, 2 references)