The desorption of SO2 from sodium phosphate buffer solution was investigated using a laboratory-scale rotating packed bed (RPB). The effects of operating parameters such as the high-gravity factor (beta) of the RPB, gas-liquid ratio (G/L), sodium phosphate concentration (C-L), preheating temperature (t), and pH of SO2-rich solutions on the desorption efficiency (theta) of SO2 were investigated. The experimental results showed that all factors except C-L have significant effects on theta, and theta decreases with increasing rich solution pH and C-L, but increases with increasing beta, G/L, and t. Under the optimal conditions of beta = 60-80, pH <= 5, G/L approximate to 800 m(3)/m(3), C-L<2 mol/L, and t approximate to 90 degrees C, theta can exceed 90%. The obtained results imply great potential for RPB use in SO2-loaded solution desorption.