Partitioning of trace inorganic elements in a coal-fired power plant equipped with a wet Flue Gas Desulphurisation system

► Abatement capacity of trace inorganic elements was studied in a Coal-fired power plant. ► Most elements are retained efficiently as fly ash (ESP, 99.6%) and slag (11%). ► FGD attains high gaseous retention (92-100%) for S, Cl, F, Se, As, B, and Hg (67%). ► Gaseous emissions are below the limits according to 2001/80/EC and PRTR threshold. ► Gaseous Hg and particulate Se, As, Zn, Cu, Ni, and Cr are the proportion emitted.