Distribution of Volatile Trace Elements in Emissions and Residuals From Pilot Scale Liquid Injection Incineration

The EPA is currently developing regulations on trace element emissions from hazardous waste incineration. However, the data base on trace element emissions from incinerators which can be used to support regulations is very sparse. Data on the effects of waste composition and incinerator operation on trace element emissions are particularly lacking. In response to these data needs, a series of tests was conducted at EPA's Combustion Research Facility (CRF) to investigate the fate of volatile trace elements in liquid injection hazardous waste incineration. In these tests, arsenic in the form of arsenic trioxide (As203) and antimony in the form of antimony trichloride (SbC13) were added to a methanol base containing varying amounts of chlorobenzene and carbon tetrachloride, and fired in the liquid injection incinerator at the CRF. Test variables included incinerator temperature and excess air level, and feed chlorine content. Test results show a relatively even distribution of both elements between scrubber exit flue gas and scrubber blowdown. Both elements are found in the vapor phase at high temperatures, though most condenses to particulate at scrubber exit temperatures. Designated POHC destruction and removal efficiency (ORE) ranged from 99.99 to 99.999 percent at the afterburner exit to 99.999 to 99.9999 percent in the scrubber exit flue gas. Typical levels of common products of incomplete combustion were measured.