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Published on: April 26, 2016
PCDD/PCDF reduction by the co-combustion process
Vinci K C Lee1, Wai-Hung Cheung, Gordon McKay
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
A new co-combustion process effectively treats municipal solid waste (MSW) in cement production, significantly reducing dioxin (PCDD/PCDF) emissions to minimal levels. This innovative method integrates waste treatment with energy recovery and emission control for sustainable waste management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Waste Management
Background:
- Municipal solid waste (MSW) presents significant disposal challenges.
- Traditional incineration methods can lead to harmful emissions, including dioxins and furans (PCDD/PCDF).
- Cement clinker production offers potential for waste thermal treatment due to high temperatures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and test a novel co-combustion process for utilizing MSW in cement production.
- To reduce polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/PCDF) emissions during waste co-combustion.
- To assess the feasibility and efficiency of integrating waste treatment with cement manufacturing.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual and detailed engineering design of the co-combustion process.
- Construction and operation of a pilot plant capable of treating up to 40 tonnes of MSW per day.
- Incorporation of external calcination, acid gas scrubbing, secondary combustion, and gas cooling units.
- Analysis of PCDD/PCDF emissions throughout the process.
Main Results:
- The co-combustion process successfully treated MSW within a cement clinker production setting.
- Measured average PCDD/PCDF emissions were exceptionally low at 0.001 ng I-TEQ/Nm(3).
- The process achieved significant energy savings via external calcination and acid gas removal.
Conclusions:
- The novel co-combustion process is a viable and effective method for MSW thermal treatment in cement production.
- The process demonstrates a substantial reduction in PCDD/PCDF emissions, meeting stringent environmental standards.
- This approach offers a sustainable solution for waste management with potential for energy recovery.
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