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Kusano R, Kusano Y. Applications of Plasma Technologies in Recycling Processes. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:1687. [PMID: 38612199 PMCID: PMC11012531 DOI: 10.3390/ma17071687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Plasmas are reactive ionised gases, which enable the creation of unique reaction fields. This allows plasmas to be widely used for a variety of chemical processes for materials, recycling among others. Because of the increase in urgency to find more sustainable methods of waste management, plasmas have been enthusiastically applied to recycling processes. This review presents recent developments of plasma technologies for recycling linked to economical models of circular economy and waste management hierarchies, exemplifying the thermal decomposition of organic components or substances, the recovery of inorganic materials like metals, the treatment of paper, wind turbine waste, and electronic waste. It is discovered that thermal plasmas are most applicable to thermal processes, whereas nonthermal plasmas are often applied in different contexts which utilise their chemical selectivity. Most applications of plasmas in recycling are successful, but there is room for advancements in applications. Additionally, further perspectives are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinosuke Kusano
- School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews KY16 9SS, UK;
| | - Yukihiro Kusano
- Department of Marine Resources and Energy, Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology, Tokyo 108-8477, Japan
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2
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Dhamale GD, Ajith N, Ghorui S. Thermal plasma processing of high temperature insulation wools. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 168:290-300. [PMID: 37329835 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
High temperature insulation wool (HTIW) wastes, generated in large volume as a part of demolition and construction processes, are difficult to recycle and pose significant hazards to health and environment. Alkaline earth silicate wools (AESW) and alumino silicate wools (ASW) are the two major types. Typical constituents include silica and oxides of Ca, Al and Mg etc. in varying ratios, giving rise to their specific colours and inherited thermo-physical properties. Successful mitigation and reuse of such wools have not been explored enough. Possibly for the first time, the study makes an extensive investigation on air plasma mitigation of four most commonly used HTIW, namely, fresh rock wool, waste rock wool, waste stone wool and waste ceramic wool. This is a single step dry process. Use of freely available ambient air to generate plasma, extremely high enthalpy, presence of nascent atomic and ionic species and extremely high temperature make the process fast, efficient, economic and unique one to convert such wastes into valorised product. While the thermal field delivered by an air plasma torch has been derived from magneto-hydrodynamic simulation, the study makes a direct in-situ investigation of the evolution of thermal field in the melting zone using two colour pyrometer, and characterises the vitreous solidified end product using X-diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis, Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy and Neutron Activation Analysis. Possible valorisation and use of the end product have been discussed in light of their observed elemental composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- G D Dhamale
- Laser and Plasma Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India.
| | - N Ajith
- Analytical Chemistry Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India
| | - S Ghorui
- Laser and Plasma Technology Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400085, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400094, India.
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3
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Sanito RC, Bernuy-Zumaeta M, You SJ, Wang YF. A review on vitrification technologies of hazardous waste. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 316:115243. [PMID: 35598450 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2022.115243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Vitrification technology provides a solution for the issue of safe disposal of hazardous waste containing harmful chemical composition and organic pollutants. This review discusses application of vitrification technologies to treat hazardous waste including, asbestos, fly ash, electronic sludge, nuclear waste, medical waste and radioactive waste. Vitrification processes via Joule heating, microwave heating, plasma technology, electric arc furnaces and incinerators are compared herein. Stabilization of hazardous waste can be achieved by vitrification with the addition of flux agents/additives. Furthermore, crystalline structures, containing the silicate-glass network, are formed as a result of vitrification, depending on the type of flux agents/additives used. In addition, the concentration of heavy metals can be degraded in the final residue and leaching resistance can be achieved. Moreover, energy consumption, pollution prevention and the foreground of the practical application of vitrification are discussed. Vitrification with the advantage of encapsulating pollutants from the hazardous waste is proven to be a promising approach for hazardous waste treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raynard Christianson Sanito
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan
| | - Marcelo Bernuy-Zumaeta
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Jie You
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan; Center for Environmental Risk Management, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Fen Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan; Center for Environmental Risk Management, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li, 32023, Taiwan.
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4
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Pancholi KC, Singh PJ, Bhattacharyya K, Tiwari M, Sahu SK, Vincent T, Udupa DV, Kaushik CP. Elemental analysis of residual ash generated during plasma incineration of cellulosic, rubber and plastic waste. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2022; 40:665-675. [PMID: 34541977 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x211038201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Management of plastic, rubber and cellulosic waste from various industries is a challenging task. An engineering scale plasma pyrolysis based incinerator has been commissioned for incineration of combustible waste, including plastic, rubber and cellulose. Operational trials of wastes with simulated composition show a weight reduction factor of more than 18 and volume reduction factor of more than 30. The volume reduction factor is tenfold higher than the compaction process currently practised for rubber and plastic wastes. Representative residual ash samples derived from these runs are subjected to their elemental analysis using EDXRF technique and results are comparable with the published literature. Relative variation of individual elements is attributed to the type of waste and feed composition. Analysis is aided with the calculation of index of geoaccumulation, enrichment factor (EF), contamination factor (CF) and pollution load index (PLI). From this study, it is evident that S, Cr, Zn, As, Se, Hg and Pb are of concern for environment in residual ash from plasma incineration of combustible waste. The efficacy of the incineration process is evaluated; C, H and O reduction achieved is more than 98% and overall enrichment ratio (ER) for the inorganic elements is more than 4.5. This study highlights the importance of elemental composition for the performance analysis of the plasma based incineration as well as hazards evaluation of constituents in residual ash for its further management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keyur C Pancholi
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Waste Management Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Param Jeet Singh
- Atomic & Molecule Physics Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kaustava Bhattacharyya
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Chemistry Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Mahesh Tiwari
- Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sanjay Kumar Sahu
- Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Tessy Vincent
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Process Development Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Dinesh Venkatesh Udupa
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Atomic & Molecule Physics Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Chetan Prakash Kaushik
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Waste Management Division, BARC, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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5
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A Review on Plasma Gasification of Solid Residues: Recent Advances and Developments. ENERGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/en15041475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
The increase in production and consumption of goods has generated a surplus of waste, which destination is commonly the landfilling sites. This represents a major bottleneck in the production chain and creates new challenges for sustainable development. Due to the environmental and economic benefits, the use of renewable and ecological fuels derived from waste has received global attention. Plasma is one of the techniques that enable achieving renewable energy from solid residues, contributing to landfill avoidance and resource reutilization in line with the circular economy principles and supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy), 12 (responsible consumption and production), and 13 (climate action). This article presents a review and analysis of literature related to the use of plasma gasification of solid waste as a method of waste recovery. This article portrays the efforts that have been made in this direction and the barriers to the dissemination of technology for commercial applications. The focus of this article comprises (a) extracting valuable aspects from various studies, including laboratory and field studies, (b) summarizing the work done so far, and (c) compiling studies and findings on plasma gasifiers and recent developments.
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6
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Khan SUD, Khan R, Hussain S. Suitability of thermal plasma for solid waste treatment and non-thermal plasma for nano-scale high-tech plasmonic materials: a concise review. APPLIED NANOSCIENCE 2022; 12:3111-3126. [PMID: 35155056 PMCID: PMC8818365 DOI: 10.1007/s13204-022-02342-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
In the recent past, plasma waste technology has emerged to be an environmental friendly and beneficial technology. In this review, current status of thermal plasma, non-thermal plasma and its application for nano-scale high-tech plasmonic materials based on the scientific and technical comprehensive observation are included. Generally, thermal plasma is used for solid waste treatment but non-thermal plasma is being utilized for plasmonic materials. The current research incorporated in two phases: thermal plasma and non-thermal plasma. In the first phase, understanding and detailed information about plasma torches have been included such as DC transfer and non-transfer arc plasma torches. In addition, solid waste treatment, municipal waste, healthcare issue, steel making and treatment through plasma jet injection have been reviewed extensively. In the second phase, state-of-the-art review has been addressed for dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and its utility for plasmonic materials. The analysis concluded that the thermal plasma is the optimal choice for treating solid waste issues and the application of non-thermal plasma such as DBD is the most useful and latest approach for plasmonic material. The prime objective of this review is not only to provide the comparison between thermal or non-thermal plasma but to recommend the ideal and most optimized suitable technique for solid waste treatment and bio-medical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahab Ud-Din Khan
- Pakistan Tokamak Plasma Research Institute, PO Box 3329, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Riaz Khan
- Pakistan Tokamak Plasma Research Institute, PO Box 3329, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Hussain
- Pakistan Tokamak Plasma Research Institute, PO Box 3329, Islamabad, Pakistan
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7
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Thermal decomposition study for effective management of low level radioactive combustible solids. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-022-08210-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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8
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Lupu ML, Isopescu DN, Tuns I, Baciu IR, Maxineasa SG. Determination of Physicomechanical Characteristics of the Cement Mortar with Added Fiberglass Waste Treated with Hydrogen Plasma. MATERIALS 2021; 14:ma14071718. [PMID: 33807383 PMCID: PMC8036827 DOI: 10.3390/ma14071718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Solving the environmental problems and the economic aspects of the construction sector represent a global priority. The considerable quantities of raw materials and the energy consumed by this sector make it one of the most polluting economic activities. Fiberglass in various forms is widely used in the construction sector. In the manufacturing process and during the usage of fiberglass products, a significant amount of indestructible waste results, negatively impacting the environment. An innovative solution for utilizing this type of waste is the treatment with hydrogen plasma. This process results in two products: the first in the gaseous state used to obtain synthetic fuel and the second in solid-state, named slag. The composition of solid waste contains chemical compounds that can increase their strength if used as additives in mortars or concretes. This study presents the laboratory tests on mortars, in which a part of the cement amount was replaced with the solid component resulting from the plasma treatment of glass fiber waste. The results showed that replacing a part of the cement with these materials is a solution that minimizes the ecological footprint of the buildings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Lucian Lupu
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi-Romania, Blvd. Mangeron, No. 1, 700050 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Dorina Nicolina Isopescu
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi-Romania, Blvd. Mangeron, No. 1, 700050 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence: (D.N.I.); (I.-R.B.); (S.G.M.)
| | - Ioan Tuns
- Department of Construction, The Transilvania University of Brasov-Romania, Tower Street, No. 5, 500152 Brașov, Romania;
| | - Ioana-Roxana Baciu
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi-Romania, Blvd. Mangeron, No. 1, 700050 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence: (D.N.I.); (I.-R.B.); (S.G.M.)
| | - Sebastian George Maxineasa
- Department of Civil and Industrial Engineering, Gheorghe Asachi Technical University of Iasi-Romania, Blvd. Mangeron, No. 1, 700050 Iasi, Romania;
- Correspondence: (D.N.I.); (I.-R.B.); (S.G.M.)
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9
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Prediction of Slag Characteristics Based on Artificial Neural Network for Molten Gasification of Hazardous Wastes. ENERGIES 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/en13195115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Molten gasification is considered as a promising technology for the processing and safe disposal of hazardous wastes. During this process, the organic components are completely converted while the hazardous materials are safely embedded in slag via the fusion-solidification-vitrification transformation. Ideally, the slag should be glassy with low viscosity to ensure the effective immobilization and steady discharge of hazardous materials. However, it is very difficult to predict the characteristics of slag using existing empirical equations or conventional mathematical methods, due to the complex non-linear relationship among the phase transformation, vitrification transition and chemical composition of slag. Equipped with a strong nonlinear mapping ability, an artificial neural network may be able to predict the properties of slags if a large amount of data is available for training. In this work, over 10,000 experimental data points were used to train and develop a slag classification model (glassy vs. non-glassy) based on a neural network. The optimal structure of the neural network was figured out and validated. The results suggest that the classification accuracy for the independent test samples reached 93.3%. Using 1 and 0 as model inputs to represent mildly reducing and inert atmospheres, a double hidden layer structure in the neural network enabled the accurate classification of slags under various atmospheres. Furthermore, the neural network for the prediction of glassy slag viscosity was optimized; it featured a double hidden layer structure. Under a mildly reducing atmosphere, the absolute error from the independent test data was generally within 4 Pa·s. By adding a gas atmosphere into the input of the neural network using a simple normalization method, a multi-atmosphere slag viscosity prediction model was developed. Said model is much more accurate than its counterpart that does not consider the effect of the atmosphere. In summary, the artificial neural network proved to be an effective approach to predicting the slag properties under different atmospheres. The data-driven models developed in this work are expected to facilitate the commercial deployment of molten gasification technology.
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Shahabuddin M, Alam MT, Krishna BB, Bhaskar T, Perkins G. A review on the production of renewable aviation fuels from the gasification of biomass and residual wastes. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 312:123596. [PMID: 32507633 PMCID: PMC7255753 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2020.123596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This article reviews the production of renewable aviation fuels from biomass and residual wastes using gasification followed by syngas conditioning and Fischer-Tropsch catalytic synthesis. The challenges involved with gasifying wastes are discussed along with a summary of conventional and emerging gasification technologies. The techniques for conditioning syngas including removal of particulate matter, tars, sulphur, carbon dioxide, compounds of nitrogen, chlorine and alkali metals are reported. Recent developments in Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, such as new catalyst formulations are described alongside reactor technologies for producing renewable aviation fuels. The energy efficiency and capital cost of converting biomass and residual wastes to aviation fuels are major barriers to widespread adoption. Therefore, further development of advanced technologies will be critical for the aviation industry to achieve their stated greenhouse gas reduction targets by 2050.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shahabuddin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
| | - Md Tanvir Alam
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
| | - Bhavya B Krishna
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) at CSIR - Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India; Material Resource Efficiency Division (MRED), CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Thallada Bhaskar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) at CSIR - Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India; Material Resource Efficiency Division (MRED), CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Greg Perkins
- Martin Parry Technology, Brisbane 4001, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia.
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11
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Sanito RC, You SJ, Chang GM, Wang YF. Effect of shell powder on removal of metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from resin in an atmospheric-pressure microwave plasma reactor. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 394:122558. [PMID: 32278125 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.122558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Resin has been widely used for thermosetting printed circuit boards (PCBs) and is a key part of e-waste from scrap PCBs. It requires appropriate treatment because of its harmful elements (metals and metalloids) and organic compounds that are toxic to human health and the environment. The purpose of this study is to eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and elements (metals and metalloids) in resin via the use of powdered snail shell (Babylonia formosae) in an atmospheric-pressure microwave plasma reactor. Shell powder plays a significant role in the destruction of benzene and toluene with removal efficiency 98.8 % and 100 %, respectively, compared to quartz sand with removal efficiency 44.9 %. A high ratio of shell powder increases the inertization of metals and metalloids by more than 96 %. The crystalline structures of these materials are dominated by calcite formations (CaCO3), confirming the elimination of metals and metalloids. Raman spectroscopy shows that the shell powder vitrifies these elements. The use of shell powder is thus recommended to degrade hazardous substances and to vitrify elements from resin in plasma pyrolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raynard Christianson Sanito
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan; Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan
| | - Sheng-Jie You
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan; R & D Centre for Membrane Technology, Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan
| | - Gen-Mu Chang
- Environmental Protection Bureau of Chiayi County 612, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Fen Wang
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan; R & D Centre for Membrane Technology, Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, No. 200 Chung Pei Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan.
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12
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Prado ESP, Miranda FS, de Araujo LG, Petraconi G, Baldan MR. Thermal plasma technology for radioactive waste treatment: a review. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-020-07269-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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13
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Solis M, Silveira S. Technologies for chemical recycling of household plastics - A technical review and TRL assessment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 105:128-138. [PMID: 32058902 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.01.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Chemical recycling is considered an attractive technological pathway for reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as promoting circular economy. In the EU, readiness to develop a full commercial plant is becoming increasingly important given the ambitious goal to recycle all plastics by 2030. Household packaging streams tend to be of lower quality and lower recycling performance compared to industrial and commercial waste streams, thus requiring particular attention. This paper assesses chemical recycling technologies available and identifies the most suitable for recycling of household plastic waste. We identify eight different technologies and compare them in terms of process temperature, sensitivity to feedstock contamination and level of polymer breakdown, three critical factors affecting the cost and attractiveness of a chemical process. In addition, we carry out a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) assessment for eight technologies based on the stage of their present development. The review is based on peer-reviewed scientific papers and information collected from technology developers and providers, as well as interviews with experts. Our analysis outlines advantages and disadvantages of technologies available for chemical plastic recycling and their TRL. The chemical recycling technologies with the highest TRL are pyrolysis, catalytic cracking and conventional gasification. However, the economic feasibility of these technologies is difficult to assess due to the low number of projects in operation and scarcity of data available for comparison. The results of this analysis provide timely information as policy makers and developers set targets for recycling, and contemplate investments on research and chemical plastic recovering plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martyna Solis
- Profu AB, Götaforsliden 13, 43134 Mölndal, Sweden; Profu AB, Götaforsliden 13, 43134 Mölndal, Sweden.
| | - Semida Silveira
- Energy and Climate Studies Division, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Brinellvägen 68, Stockholm 10044, Sweden
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14
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Shahabuddin M, Krishna BB, Bhaskar T, Perkins G. Advances in the thermo-chemical production of hydrogen from biomass and residual wastes: Summary of recent techno-economic analyses. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 299:122557. [PMID: 31918971 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
This article outlines the prospects and challenges of hydrogen production from biomass and residual wastes, such as municipal solid waste. Recent advances in gasification and pyrolysis followed by reforming are discussed. The review finds that the thermal efficiency of hydrogen from gasification is ~50%. The levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) from biomass varies from ~2.3-5.2 USD/kg at feedstock processing scales of 10 MWth to ~2.8-3.4 USD/kg at scales above 250 MWth. Preliminary estimates are that the LCOH from residual wastes could be in the range of ~1.4-4.8 USD/kg, depending upon the waste gate fee and project scale. The main barriers to development of waste to hydrogen projects include: waste pre-treatment, technology maturity, syngas conditioning, the market for clean hydrogen, policies to incentivize pioneer projects and technology competitiveness. The main opportunity is to produce low cost clean hydrogen, which is competitive with alternative production routes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shahabuddin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Monash University, Clayton 3800, Australia
| | - Bhavya B Krishna
- Academy of Scientific and Innovation Research (AcSIR) at CSIR Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India; Materials Resource Efficiency Division (MRED), CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Thallada Bhaskar
- Academy of Scientific and Innovation Research (AcSIR) at CSIR Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India; Materials Resource Efficiency Division (MRED), CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun 248005, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Greg Perkins
- Martin Parry Technology, Brisbane 4001, Australia; School of Chemical Engineering, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4072, Australia.
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Materazzi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, Torrington Place, London WC1E 7JE, U.K
| | - Richard Taylor
- Advanced Biofuel Solutions Ltd., South Marston Business Park, Swindon SN3 4DE, U.K
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16
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Ismail TM, Monteiro E, Ramos A, El-Salam MA, Rouboa A. An Eulerian model for forest residues gasification in a plasma gasifier. ENERGY 2019; 182:1069-1083. [DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2019.06.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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17
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Environmental Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste by Two-Stage Plasma Gasification. ENERGIES 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/en12010137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Plasma gasification is a thermal treatment successfully applied to waste streams, especially for solid residues. It sets an upgrade to more common waste-to-energy (WtE) techniques as incineration or gasification, granting lower levels of pollutant emissions, less landfilled materials and higher conversion efficiencies and producer gas quality. A life cycle assessment (LCA) of plasma gasification for one ton of a defined stream of solid waste is presented and compared to the hypothetical outcomes of incineration, highlighting the need to implement such sustainable techniques rather than more polluting ones. CML 2001 methodology was applied, enabling the evaluation of eleven impact categories, all of them depicting avoided burdens for the environment. Enhanced efficiency and cleanliness were seen due to the plasma step and to the replacement of part of the electrical grid mix by the produced electricity. Plasma gasification presented an overall better performance than incineration, portraying savings in energy and material resources as well as lower emissions to freshwater. Additionally, lower amounts of air contaminants were seen as well as almost triple of the produced electricity.
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Sudibyo H, Majid AI, Pradana YS, Budhijanto W, Deendarlianto, Budiman A. Technological Evaluation of Municipal Solid Waste Management System in Indonesia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.egypro.2017.03.312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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19
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Abedi-Varaki M, Davtalab M. Site selection for installing plasma incinerator reactor using the GIS in Rudsar county, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2016; 188:353. [PMID: 27188303 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-016-5347-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2015] [Accepted: 05/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, the urban waste disposal and the proper location for doing so is considered as one of the most important urban service issues, which has the potential of causing environmental hazards for the citizens, if not done properly. One of the newest methods of waste burial is using plasma incinerator reactors. Using the advanced technology of plasma reactors in waste disposal has been the subject of study for a considerable number of researchers in the last few years. Moreover, insignificant emissions of environmental pollutants and high efficiency in these reactors have led to a high incentive for using them in the area of urban services. Therefore, finding the proper location for the plasma incinerator reactor in order to minimize environmental hazards is considered as a very important issue. In the present study, different parts of this reactor and its working procedure are presented at first. Then, quantitative and qualitative criteria effective on locating plasma incinerator reactor are presented, and these criteria are given proper weights using analytic hierarchy process (AHP) multi-criteria decision making method. Next, the data were collected for the studying area, and then, weighting, analysis, and presentation of geospatial data were performed using the geographic information system (GIS). Finally, the output map for installing location of the plasma incinerator reactor was developed in three classes of good, average, and bad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Abedi-Varaki
- Young Researchers and Elites Club, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
| | - Mehri Davtalab
- Young Researchers and Elites Club, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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20
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Energy Generation from Municipal Solid Waste by Innovative Technologies – Plasma Gasification. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mspro.2015.06.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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21
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Tsiliyannis CA. Hazardous waste incinerators under waste uncertainty: balancing and throughput maximization via heat recuperation. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2013; 33:1800-1824. [PMID: 23756352 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2013.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/03/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Hazardous waste incinerators (HWIs) differ substantially from thermal power facilities, since instead of maximizing energy production with the minimum amount of fuel, they aim at maximizing throughput. Variations in quantity or composition of received waste loads may significantly diminish HWI throughput (the decisive profit factor), from its nominal design value. A novel formulation of combustion balance is presented, based on linear operators, which isolates the wastefeed vector from the invariant combustion stoichiometry kernel. Explicit expressions for the throughput are obtained, in terms of incinerator temperature, fluegas heat recuperation ratio and design parameters, for an arbitrary number of wastes, based on fundamental principles (mass and enthalpy balances). The impact of waste variations, of recuperation ratio and of furnace temperature is explicitly determined. It is shown that in the presence of waste uncertainty, the throughput may be a decreasing or increasing function of incinerator temperature and recuperation ratio, depending on the sign of a dimensionless parameter related only to the uncertain wastes. The dimensionless parameter is proposed as a sharp a' priori waste 'fingerprint', determining the necessary increase or decrease of manipulated variables (recuperation ratio, excess air, auxiliary fuel feed rate, auxiliary air flow) in order to balance the HWI and maximize throughput under uncertainty in received wastes. A 10-step procedure is proposed for direct application subject to process capacity constraints. The results may be useful for efficient HWI operation and for preparing hazardous waste blends.
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23
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Arena U. Process and technological aspects of municipal solid waste gasification. A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2012; 32:625-39. [PMID: 22035903 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2011.09.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 230] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2011] [Revised: 08/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The paper proposes a critical assessment of municipal solid waste gasification today, starting from basic aspects of the process (process types and steps, operating and performance parameters) and arriving to a comparative analysis of the reactors (fixed bed, fluidized bed, entrained bed, vertical shaft, moving grate furnace, rotary kiln, plasma reactor) as well as of the possible plant configurations (heat gasifier and power gasifier) and the environmental performances of the main commercially available gasifiers for municipal solid wastes. The analysis indicates that gasification is a technically viable option for the solid waste conversion, including residual waste from separate collection of municipal solid waste. It is able to meet existing emission limits and can have a remarkable effect on reduction of landfill disposal option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Arena
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Second University of Naples, Via A. Vivaldi, 43, 81100 Caserta, Italy.
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24
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Lombardi L, Carnevale E, Corti A. Analysis of energy recovery potential using innovative technologies of waste gasification. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2012; 32:640-652. [PMID: 21889326 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2011.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2011] [Revised: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, two alternative thermo-chemical processes for waste treatment were analysed: high temperature gasification and gasification associated to plasma process. The two processes were analysed from the thermodynamic point of view, trying to reconstruct two simplified models, using appropriate simulation tools and some support data from existing/planned plants, able to predict the energy recovery performances by process application. In order to carry out a comparative analysis, the same waste stream input was considered as input to the two models and the generated results were compared. The performances were compared with those that can be obtained from conventional combustion with energy recovery process by means of steam turbine cycle. Results are reported in terms of energy recovery performance indicators as overall energy efficiency, specific energy production per unit of mass of entering waste, primary energy source savings, specific carbon dioxide production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Lombardi
- Dipartimento di Energetica, University of Florence, via Santa Marta 3, 50139 Florence, Italy.
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25
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Morrin S, Lettieri P, Chapman C, Mazzei L. Two stage fluid bed-plasma gasification process for solid waste valorisation: technical review and preliminary thermodynamic modelling of sulphur emissions. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2012; 32:676-684. [PMID: 21982278 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2011.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2011] [Revised: 08/19/2011] [Accepted: 08/29/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Gasification of solid waste for energy has significant potential given an abundant feed supply and strong policy drivers. Nonetheless, significant ambiguities in the knowledge base are apparent. Consequently this study investigates sulphur mechanisms within a novel two stage fluid bed-plasma gasification process. This paper includes a detailed review of gasification and plasma fundamentals in relation to the specific process, along with insight on MSW based feedstock properties and sulphur pollutant therein. As a first step to understanding sulphur partitioning and speciation within the process, thermodynamic modelling of the fluid bed stage has been performed. Preliminary findings, supported by plant experience, indicate the prominence of solid phase sulphur species (as opposed to H(2)S) - Na and K based species in particular. Work is underway to further investigate and validate this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane Morrin
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University College London, London, WC1E 7JE, Great Britain, United Kingdom.
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26
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Moustakas K, Mavropoulos A, Katsou E, Haralambous KJ, Loizidou M. Leaching properties of slag generated by a gasification/vitrification unit: the role of pH, particle size, contact time and cooling method used. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2012; 207-208:44-50. [PMID: 21983167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2011.09.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2010] [Revised: 06/11/2011] [Accepted: 09/18/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The environmental impact from the operation of thermal waste treatment facilities mainly originates from the air emissions, as well as the generated solid residues. The objective of this paper is to examine the slag residue generated by a demonstration plasma gasification/vitrification unit and investigate the composition, the leaching properties of the slag under different conditions, as well as the role of the cooling method used. The influence of pH, particle size and contact time on the leachability of heavy metals are discussed. The main outcome is that the vitrified slag is characterized as inert and stable and can be safely disposed at landfills or used in the construction sector. Finally, the water-cooled slag showed better resistance in relation to heavy metal leachability compared to the air-cooled slag.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Moustakas
- National Technical University of Athens, School of Chemical Engineering, Unit of Environmental Science & Technology, 9, Heroon Polytechniou St., Zographou Campus, P.C. 15773, Athens, Greece.
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27
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Punčochář M, Ruj B, Chatterj P. Development of Process for Disposal of Plastic Waste Using Plasma Pyrolysis Technology and Option for Energy Recovery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.proeng.2012.07.433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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28
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Byun Y, Cho M, Chung JW, Namkung W, Lee HD, Jang SD, Kim YS, Lee JH, Lee CR, Hwang SM. Hydrogen recovery from the thermal plasma gasification of solid waste. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2011; 190:317-323. [PMID: 21497018 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2011.03.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2010] [Revised: 03/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Thermal plasma gasification has been demonstrated as one of the most effective and environmentally friendly methods for solid waste treatment and energy utilization in many of studies. Therefore, the thermal plasma process of solid waste gasification (paper mill waste, 1.2 ton/day) was applied for the recovery of high purity H(2) (>99.99%). Gases emitted from a gasification furnace equipped with a nontransferred thermal plasma torch were purified using a bag-filter and wet scrubber. Thereafter, the gases, which contained syngas (CO+H(2)), were introduced into a H(2) recovery system, consisting largely of a water gas shift (WGS) unit for the conversion of CO to H(2) and a pressure swing adsorption (PSA) unit for the separation and purification of H(2). It was successfully demonstrated that the thermal plasma process of solid waste gasification, combined with the WGS and PSA, produced high purity H(2) (20 N m(3)/h (400 H(2)-Nm(3)/PMW-ton), up to 99.99%) using a plasma torch with 1.6 MWh/PMW-ton of electricity. The results presented here suggest that the thermal plasma process of solid waste gasification for the production of high purity H(2) may provide a new approach as a future energy infrastructure based on H(2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngchul Byun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-dong, Nam-gu, Pohang 790-600, Republic of Korea
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29
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Zhao P, Ni G, Jiang Y, Chen L, Chen M, Meng Y. Destruction of inorganic municipal solid waste incinerator fly ash in a DC arc plasma furnace. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2010; 181:580-585. [PMID: 20542633 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2010.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2009] [Revised: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/13/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Due to the toxicity of dioxins, furans and heavy metals, there is a growing environmental concern on municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) fly ash in China. The purpose of this study is directed towards the volume-reduction of fly ash without any additive by thermal plasma and recycling of vitrified slag. This process uses extremely high-temperature in an oxygen-starved environment to completely decompose complex waste into very simple molecules. For developing the proper plasma processes to treat MSWI fly ash, a new crucible-type plasma furnace was built. The melting process metamorphosed fly ash to granulated slag that was less than 1/3 of the volume of the fly ash, and about 64% of the weight of the fly ash. The safety of the vitrified slag was tested. The properties of the slag were affected by the differences in the cooling methods. Water-cooled and composite-cooled slag showed more excellent resistance against the leaching of heavy metals and can be utilized as building material without toxicity problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Zhao
- Applied Plasma Division, Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Science (ASIPP), Hefei, Anhui Province, China.
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30
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Byun Y, Namkung W, Cho M, Chung JW, Kim YS, Lee JH, Lee CR, Hwang SM. Demonstration of thermal plasma gasification/vitrification for municipal solid waste treatment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2010; 44:6680-4. [PMID: 20677789 DOI: 10.1021/es101244u] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Thermal plasma treatment has been regarded as a viable alternative for the treatment of highly toxic wastes, such as incinerator residues, radioactive wastes, and medical wastes. Therefore, a gasification/vitrification unit for the direct treatment of municipal solid waste (MSW), with a capacity of 10 tons/day, was developed using an integrated furnace equipped with two nontransferred thermal plasma torches. The overall process, as well as the analysis of byproducts and energy balance, has been presented in this paper to assess the performance of this technology. It was successfully demonstrated that the thermal plasma process converted MSW into innocuous slag, with much lower levels of environmental air pollutant emissions and the syngas having a utility value as energy sources (287 Nm3/MSW-ton for H2 and 395 Nm3/MSW-ton for CO), using 1.14 MWh/MSW-ton of electricity (thermal plasma torch (0.817 MWh/MSW-ton)+utilities (0.322 MWh/MSW-ton)) and 7.37 Nm3/MSW-ton of liquefied petroleum gas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngchul Byun
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31 Hyoja-dong Nam-gu Pohang 790-600, Republic of Korea
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31
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Kuo YM, Wang CT, Tsai CH, Wang LC. Chemical and physical properties of plasma slags containing various amorphous volume fractions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2009; 162:469-475. [PMID: 18573600 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2008.05.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2008] [Revised: 05/14/2008] [Accepted: 05/14/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
In this study, municipal solid waste incinerator fly ash was vitrified using a plasma torch. The fly ash contained rich Ca, causing a high basicity of 2.43. Pure quartz was used as an additive to adjust the basicity. BET surface area analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, and a scanning electron microscope were used to examine the physical properties of slags. The chemical stability and the acid resistance of slags were evaluated using the toxicity characteristics leaching procedure and tests of acid bathing. The results indicate that the plasma torch effectively vitrified the fly ash. Anthropogenic metals with low boiling points, such as Cd, Pb, and Zn, were predominately vaporized into flue gas. Most of the metals with high boiling points, such as Cr, Cu, and Mn, remained in the slag. After the vitrification, hazardous metals were noticeably immobilized in all slags. However, the slags with higher amorphous volume fractions were more effective in metal immobilization and in resisting acid corrosion. This indicates that SiO(2) enhanced the formation of the glassy amorphous phase and improved the resistance of acid corrosion and the immobilization of hazardous metals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ming Kuo
- Department of Safety Health and Environmental Engineering, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology,Taiwan, Republic of China
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32
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Gomez E, Rani DA, Cheeseman CR, Deegan D, Wise M, Boccaccini AR. Thermal plasma technology for the treatment of wastes: a critical review. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2009; 161:614-26. [PMID: 18499345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2008.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2007] [Revised: 04/03/2008] [Accepted: 04/04/2008] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
This review describes the current status of waste treatment using thermal plasma technology. A comprehensive analysis of the available scientific and technical literature on waste plasma treatment is presented, including the treatment of a variety of hazardous wastes, such as residues from municipal solid waste incineration, slag and dust from steel production, asbestos-containing wastes, health care wastes and organic liquid wastes. The principles of thermal plasma generation and the technologies available are outlined, together with potential applications for plasma vitrified products. There have been continued advances in the application of plasma technology for waste treatment, and this is now a viable alternative to other potential treatment/disposal options. Regulatory, economic and socio-political drivers are promoting adoption of advanced thermal conversion techniques such as thermal plasma technology and these are expected to become increasingly commercially viable in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gomez
- Department of Materials, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
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Moustakas K, Xydis G, Malamis S, Haralambous KJ, Loizidou M. Analysis of results from the operation of a pilot plasma gasification/vitrification unit for optimizing its performance. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2008; 151:473-80. [PMID: 17624665 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2007.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2006] [Revised: 06/02/2007] [Accepted: 06/06/2007] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Plasma gasification/vitrification is an innovative and environmentally friendly method of waste treatment. A demonstration plasma gasification/vitrification unit was developed and installed in Viotia region in order to examine the efficiency of this innovative technology in dealing with hazardous waste. The preliminary results from the trial runs of the plasma unit, as well as the study of the influence of certain parameters in the system performance are presented and analyzed in this paper, contributing to the improvement of the operation performance. Finally, data on the final air emissions and the vitrified ash toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP) results are provided in order to assess the environmental performance of the system. The produced slag was found to be characterized by extremely low leaching properties and can be utilized as construction material, while the values of the polluting parameters of the air emissions were satisfactory.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Moustakas
- National Technical University of Athens, School of Chemical Engineering, Unit of Environmental Science and Technology, 9, Heroon Polytechniou Street, Zografou Campus, 15773 Athens, Greece.
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Cheng TW, Huang MZ, Tzeng CC, Cheng KB, Ueng TH. Production of coloured glass-ceramics from incinerator ash using thermal plasma technology. CHEMOSPHERE 2007; 68:1937-45. [PMID: 17412393 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2007.02.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2006] [Revised: 02/20/2007] [Accepted: 02/20/2007] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Incineration is a major treatment process for municipal solid waste in Taiwan. It is estimated that over 1.5 Mt of incinerator ash are produced annually. This study proposes using thermal plasma technology to treat incinerator ash. Sintered glass-ceramics were produced using quenched vitrified slag with colouring agents added. The experimental results showed that the major crystalline phases developed in the sintered glass-ceramics were gehlenite and wollastonite, but many other secondary phases also appeared depending on the colouring agents added. The physical/mechanical properties, chemical resistance and toxicity characteristic leaching procedure of the coloured glass-ceramics were satisfactory. The glass-ceramic products obtained from incinerator ash treated with thermal plasma technology have great potential for building applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- T W Cheng
- Institute of Mineral Resources Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.
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35
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Lemmens B, Elslander H, Vanderreydt I, Peys K, Diels L, Oosterlinck M, Joos M. Assessment of plasma gasification of high caloric waste streams. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2007; 27:1562-9. [PMID: 17134888 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2006.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2005] [Revised: 03/31/2006] [Accepted: 07/21/2006] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Plasma gasification is an innovative technology for transforming high calorific waste streams into a valuable synthesis gas and a vitrified slag by means of a thermal plasma. A test program has been set up to evaluate the feasibility of plasma gasification and the impact of this process on the environment. RDF (refuse derived fuel) from carpet and textile waste was selected as feed material for semi-pilot gasification tests. The aim of the tests was: (1) to evaluate the technical feasibility of making a stable synthesis gas; (2) to characterize the composition of this synthesis gas; (3) to define a suitable after-treatment configuration for purification of the syngas and (4) to characterize the stability of the slag, i.e., its resistance to leaching for use as a secondary building material. The tests illustrate that plasma gasification can result in a suitable syngas quality and a slag, characterized by an acceptable leachability. Based on the test results, a further scale-up of this technology will be prepared and validation tests run.
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