Study of a two steps process for the valorization of PVC-containing wastes

Published online 27 November 2012The presence of organic compounds in wastes, namely polymer based compounds, is considered a potential relevant source of energy. However, the presence of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in their composition, causes recycling problems when a thermal process is considered for the wastes treatment [1] preventing its use on processes which the main goal is the energy recovery (Zevenhoven et al. in Fuel 81:507–510, 2002; Kim in Waste Manag 21:609–616, 2001). A possible solution should consider a first step for chlorine removal, through a pyrolysis process previously to a subsequent thermal treatment, for energetic valorization. The present work assesses a possible process for treating PVC-containing wastes in an environmentally friendly way. It is based on the effective de-chlorination of PVC-containing wastes through a pyrolysis process at low temperature before the carbonaceous residue (chlorine free fraction) being subjected to a subsequent thermal treatment for energetic valorization with the production of a synthesis gas (syngas). In the end of the process concentrated hydrochloric acid or other chlorine solutions and a syngas, with high energetic potential are obtained. The synthesis gas produced can be used in turbines or gas engines, replacing the gases obtained from fossil non-renewable resources. The validation of the proposed treatment of PVC-containing wastes in pilot scale has also been performed