Abstract: A method and composition are described for catalytically converting unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide and reducing nitrogen oxides to nitrogen during or subsequent to the combustion of fossil fuels while adsorbing sulfur oxides. The method and composition of the invention are also useful for treating reducing gases containing one or more of hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and carbonyl sulfide to reduce these gaseous components to non-polluting components such as nitrogen, hydrogen, and water while adsorbing sulfur so that it can be removed from the system. The method and composition of the invention are especially characterized by their use to remove polluting gaseous components from fossil fuels during combustion or subsequent to combustion or from reducing gases and in various stages as long as the catalyst adsorbent system of the invention is brought into contact with the gaseous contaminants being removed.

Abstract: A method and composition are described for carrying out the combustion of fossil fuels in a fluidized bed with reduced emissions of sulfur, carbon and nitrogen oxides and unburned hydrocarbons. Combustion is carried out in the presence of a solid sulfur oxide adsorbent and a metal or metal oxide component which is catalytically active with respect to unburned hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide.