What potential issue can arise from air heater corrosion?

Corrosion in air heaters can indeed lead to significant operational issues, with the formation of sulfuric acid being a notable concern. When steel components within the air heater corrode, especially in the presence of water vapor, a chemical reaction can occur where water vapor mixes with sulfur oxides (SOx) that are often present in combustion gases. This reaction can form sulfuric acid (H2SO4), which is highly corrosive. The presence of sulfuric acid can exacerbate the rate of corrosion, leading to further degradation of the equipment, reduced operational life, and potential system failures.

This kind of corrosion can lead to leaks and efficiency loss in the heating system, as well as create harmful emissions and environmental concerns. It is essential for power engineers to understand the materials used in the construction of air heaters and the potential corrosive environments they will face, allowing for the implementation of appropriate protective measures and maintenance strategies.

In contrast, the other choices do not directly relate to the issue of corrosion in air heaters. For instance, carbon dioxide formation and unburned fuel issues pertain more to combustion efficiency rather than corrosion processes. Loss of thermal efficiency in economizers, while a valid concern in thermodynamic systems, is a different aspect of heat transfer and