Pocatello — The J.R. Simplot Co. has submitted a request to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) for an air quality permit to allow the company to conduct lab-scale research to determine the feasibility of removing sulfur from gypsum via thermal decomposition. It also wants to gauge whether the project is suitable for larger scale operations. The research will be conducted at Simplot’s Engineering and Manufacturing Technology site near its phosphate fertilizer complex west of Pocatello. It will be done by operating an existing bench-top kiln that was issued an air permit last December to research the thermal beneficiation of phosphate ore. No more than 7,000 pounds of gypsum will be stored at the EMT building at one time. Simplot officials told IDEQ no combustion sources are associated with the lab-scale test, and testing is expected to occur no more than 1,300 hours per year. Gypsum from Simplot’s Pocatello and/or Rock Springs, Wyo., fertilizer plants will be heated to produce calcium oxide and sulfur dioxide. Kiln temperatures are expected to be between 500 and 1,100 degrees Celsius. Project work is set to begin the first of May or sooner, depending upon the permit issue date. No construction is needed because existing laboratory equipment will be used. A 30-day public comment period will be provided on the proposed permit if a written request is submitted to IDEQ by 5 p.m. MST, March 12.
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