Abstract: A system for handling aqueous sludge to a combustor such that pollutant emissions associated with combustion operations, e.g., cement manufacturing, are reduced. Sludge is accumulated at a receiving site from where it is transported to a sludge conduit. The sludge is then introduced from the sludge conduit into a combustion apparatus at a point effective to reduce pollutant emissions produced by the combustion operation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for reducing pollutant emissions associated with combustion operations, e.g., cement manufacturing. The invention further relates to the disposal of sludge, e.g., produced by waste water treatment plants, by introducing it into the combustion process. In particular, the invention provides for introducing particles of aqueous sludge into a kiln at a point in the kiln effective to reduce pollutant emissions in outlet flue gasses produced by the kiln. Optimally, the sludge is introduced at a point in which maximum NO.sub.x emission reductions can occur and maximum HCl emission reductions can occur downstream (at lower temperatures). In a specific embodiment, introduction of about 10 to about 20 tons per hour of wet sludge results in about a 15% to 30% reduction in NO.sub.x emissions in a cement kiln.