Abstract: A composition of matter is used to treat particles entrained in flue gas. The composition comprises a caustic liquid to adjust the resistivity of the entrained particles. An inert particulate matter supports the caustic liquid to inhibit the chemical action of the caustic liquid until used to adjust the resistivity of the entrained particles. The entrained particles are removed from the flue gas by choosing a caustic liquid to adjust the resistivity of the entrained particles. The caustic liquid is supported on inert particulate matter to inhibit the chemical action of the caustic liquid. The supported caustic liquid is supplied to untreated flue gas at a temperature sufficient to separate the caustic liquid from the inert particulate matter. The separated caustic liquid is mixed with the entrained particles so as to coat the entrained particles. The coated particles are then passed through an electrostatic precipitator to remove them from the flue gas.

Abstract: An aqueous solution is applied to water insoluble solid particles when flowing from one location to another location to improve the flow characteristics of the particles while inhibiting caking characteristics of the particles. The aqueous solution comprises a water soluble polymer derived from cellulose.