FORMATION OF POLYCHLORINATED DIOXINS AND DIBENZOFURANS IN INCINERATION OF REFUSE DERIVED FUEL AND BIOSLUDGE

Incineration tests of biosludge and refuse derived fuel (RDF) were per formed in a pilot scale circulating fluidized bed plant. Samples of ch lorinated organic compounds were collected simultaneously at three dif ferent locations in the incinerator (temperatures 850, 250, and 140-de grees-C). Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofuran (PCDF) concentrations formed in the furnace were higher i n incineration tests of RDF than in incineration tests of biosludge mi xtures. PCDD/PCDF formation at 850-degrees-C was observed to depend on chlorine content in the fuel. Post-formation of PCDD/PCDF compounds b eyond the furnace was only observed in tests of RDF. Post-formation re actions were absent in tests of biosludge mixtures. Post-formation rea ctions were due to higher concentrations of metals, especially copper in RDF fuel.