Skip to main content
SpringerLink
Log in

The co-removal of PCDD/Fs by SCR system in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator: Migration-transformation and decomposition pathways

  • Article
  • Published:
Science China Technological Sciences Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) generated from municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration are considered as the key pollutants, which could pose serious risks to the environment and ecology. This study comprehensively investigated the effect of selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system on PCDD/F removal, phase distributions, and migration-transformation characteristics of 17 congeners in a full-scale MSW incinerator. The three flue gas samples and two fly ash samples were separately collected for PCDD/F analysis. The results showed that the SCR system reduced the I-TEQ concentration of PCDD/Fs from 0.135 to 0.010 ng I-TEQ Nm−3 with a remarkable toxicity removal efficiency of 92.6%, through oxidation decomposition over V2O5−WO3/TiO2 catalysts and chlorination process of low-chlorinated congeners. In addition, the de novo synthesis observed along the flue between SCR system and stack regenerated unexpected PCDD/Fs, which might enhance the PCDD/F emission level. This study verified the three pathways of SCR system on PCDD/F removal and inspired operating suggestions for SCR system, i.e., keeping SCR system operated in stable and consistent conditions, regularly replacing V2O5−WO3/TiO2 catalysts, and timely cleaning the dusts and inlet materials of SCR system, which would be beneficial for achieving the ultra-low emission of PCDD/Fs in full-scale MSW incinerators.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  1. Li C, Yan F, Shen X, et al. Highly efficient and stable PEI@Al2O3 adsorbents derived from coal fly ash for biogas upgrading. Chem Eng J, 2021, 409: 128117

    Article  Google Scholar 

  2. Shen X, Yan F, Li C, et al. Biogas upgrading via cyclic CO2 adsorption: Application of highly regenerable PEI@nano-Al2O3 adsorbents with anti-urea properties. Environ Sci Technol, 2021, 55: 5236–5247

    Article  Google Scholar 

  3. Xie Y B, Wang D, Qiao J F. Dynamic multi-objective intelligent optimal control toward wastewater treatment processes. Sci China Tech Sci, 2022, 65: 569–580

    Article  Google Scholar 

  4. RedCorn R, Fatemi S, Engelberth A S. Comparing end-use potential for industrial food-waste sources. Engineering, 2018, 4: 371–380

    Article  Google Scholar 

  5. National Bureau of Statistics of China, 2011. China Statistical Yearbook (Chapter 12)–31. China Statistical Publishing House, Beijing, available from. http://www.stats.gov.cn/tjsj/ndsj/2011/indexch.htm

    Google Scholar 

  6. National Bureau of Statistics of China, 2021. China Statistical Yearbook (Chapter 8)–18. China Statistical Publishing House, Beijing, available from. http://www.stats.gov.cn/tjsj/ndsj/2021/indexch.htm

    Google Scholar 

  7. Yao W, Huang L, Zhao F, et al. Effective remediation of cadmium and lead contaminated soils by a novel slow-release phosphate amendment. J Cent South Univ, 2022, 29: 1185–1196

    Article  Google Scholar 

  8. Zhang H, Zhang K, Sun S M. Theoretical study of the degradation mechanism on the reactions 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins with hydrogen and chlorine atoms. Sci China Tech Sci, 2015, 58: 181–188

    Article  Google Scholar 

  9. Ryan S P, Li X D, Gullett B K, et al. Experimental study on the effect of SO2 on PCDD/F emissions: Determination of the importance of gas-phase versus solid-phase reactions in PCDD/F formation. Environ Sci Technol, 2006, 40: 7040–7047

    Article  Google Scholar 

  10. Wong M H. Integrated sustainable waste management in densely populated cities: The case of Hong Kong. Sustain Horizons, 2022, 2: 100014

    Article  Google Scholar 

  11. Cartmell E, Gostelow P, Riddell-Black D, et al. Biosolids—A fuel or a waste? An integrated appraisal of five co-combustion scenarios with policy analysis. Environ Sci Technol, 2006, 40: 649–658

    Article  Google Scholar 

  12. Deng D, Qiao J, Liu M, et al. Detoxification of municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) fly ash by single-mode microwave (MW) irradiation: Addition of urea on the degradation of dioxin and mechanism. J Hazard Mater, 2019, 369: 279–289

    Article  Google Scholar 

  13. Weidemann E, Lundin L. Behavior of PCDF, PCDD, PCN and PCB during low temperature thermal treatment of MSW incineration fly ash. Chem Eng J, 2015, 279: 180–187

    Article  Google Scholar 

  14. Chen Z, Lin X, Zhang S, et al. Thermal cotreatment of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash with sewage sludge for PCDD/Fs decomposition and reformation suppression. J Hazard Mater, 2021, 416: 126216

    Article  Google Scholar 

  15. Wang P, Yan F, Cai J, et al. Emission levels and phase distributions of PCDD/Fs in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator: The impact of wet scrubber system. J Clean Prod, 2022, 337: 130468

    Article  Google Scholar 

  16. Altwicker E R. Formation of PCDDF in municipal solid waste incinerators: Laboratory and modeling studies. J Hazard Mater, 1996, 47: 137–161

    Article  Google Scholar 

  17. Chen Z, Zhang S, Lin X, et al. Decomposition and reformation pathways of PCDD/Fs during thermal treatment of municipal solid waste incineration fly ash. J Hazard Mater, 2020, 394: 122526

    Article  Google Scholar 

  18. Peng Y, Lu S, Li X, et al. Formation, measurement, and control of dioxins from the incineration of municipal solid wastes: Recent advances and perspectives. Energy Fuels, 2020, 34: 13247–13267

    Article  MathSciNet  Google Scholar 

  19. Zheng G J, Leung A O W, Jiao L P, et al. Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans pollution in China: Sources, environmental levels and potential human health impacts. Environ Int, 2008, 34: 1050–1061

    Article  Google Scholar 

  20. Eadon G, Aldouos K, Frenkel G, et al. Comparisons of chemical and biological data on soot samples from the Binghamton State Office Building. Albany: Center for Laboratories and Research, New York State Department of Health, 1982

    Google Scholar 

  21. McKay G. Dioxin characterisation, formation and minimisation during municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration: Review. Chem Eng J, 2002, 86: 343–368

    Article  Google Scholar 

  22. Addink R, Olie K. Mechanisms of formation and destruction of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in heterogeneous systems. Environ Sci Technol, 1995, 29: 1425–1435

    Article  Google Scholar 

  23. Zhan M, Chen T, Lin X, et al. Suppression of dioxins after the postcombustion zone of MSWIs. Waste Manage, 2016, 54: 153–161

    Article  Google Scholar 

  24. Stanmore B R. The formation of dioxins in combustion systems. Combust Flame, 2004, 136: 398–427

    Article  Google Scholar 

  25. Abad E, Caixach J, Rivera J. Improvements in dioxin abatement strategies at a municipal waste management plant in Barcelona. Chemosphere, 2003, 50: 1175–1182

    Article  Google Scholar 

  26. Zhong R, Cai J, Yan F, et al. Process tracing and partitioning behaviors of PCDD/Fs in the post-combustion zone from a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator in southern China. Environ Tech Innovation, 2021, 23: 101789

    Article  Google Scholar 

  27. Cai J, Zhong R, Liu X, et al. Effects of evaporation capacity on the formation and removal of PCDD/Fs in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator. Process Saf Environ Protection, 2021, 154: 18–31

    Article  Google Scholar 

  28. Chen T, Sun C, Wang T, et al. Removal of PCDD/Fs and CBzs by different air pollution control devices in MSWIs. Aerosol Air Qual Res, 2020, 20: 2260–2272

    Article  Google Scholar 

  29. Wei J, Li H, Liu J. Phase distribution of PCDD/Fs in flue gas from municipal solid waste incinerator with ultra-low emission control in China. Chemosphere, 2021, 276: 130166

    Article  Google Scholar 

  30. Liu X, Wang J, Wang X, et al. Simultaneous removal of PCDD/Fs and NOx from the flue gas of a municipal solid waste incinerator with a pilot plant. Chemosphere, 2015, 133: 90–96

    Article  Google Scholar 

  31. Goemans M, Clarysse P, Joannès J, et al. Catalytic NOx reduction with simultaneous dioxin and furan oxidation. Chemosphere, 2003, 50: 489–497

    Article  Google Scholar 

  32. Zhong R, Wang C, Zhang Z, et al. PCDD/F levels and phase distributions in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator with co-incinerating sewage sludge. Waste Manage, 2020, 106: 110–119

    Article  Google Scholar 

  33. Weber R. Low temperature decomposition of PCDD/PCDF, chlorobenzenes and PAHs by TiO2-based V2O5−WO3 catalysts. Appl Catal B-Environ, 1999, 20: 249–256

    Article  Google Scholar 

  34. Chang M B, Chi K H, Chang S H, et al. Destruction of PCDD/Fs by SCR from flue gases of municipal waste incinerator and metal smelting plant. Chemosphere, 2007, 66: 1114–1122

    Article  Google Scholar 

  35. Chang M B, Chi K H, Chang-Chien G P. Evaluation of PCDD/F congener distributions in MWI flue gas treated with SCR catalysts. Chemosphere, 2004, 55: 1457–1467

    Article  Google Scholar 

  36. Yu M F, Lin X Q, Li X D, et al. Catalytic destruction of PCDD/Fs over vanadium oxide-based catalysts. Environ Sci Pollut Res, 2016, 23: 16249–16258

    Article  Google Scholar 

  37. Wang Q, Hung P C, Lu S, et al. Catalytic decomposition of gaseous PCDD/Fs over V2O5/TiO2−CNTs catalyst: Effect of NO and NH3 addition. Chemosphere, 2016, 159: 132–137

    Article  Google Scholar 

  38. Tuppurainen K, Halonen I, Ruokojärvi P, et al. Formation of PCDDs and PCDFs in municipal waste incineration and its inhibition mechanisms: A review. Chemosphere, 1998, 36: 1493–1511

    Article  Google Scholar 

  39. Chi K H, Chang M B, Chang-Chien G P, et al. Characteristics of PCDD/F congener distributions in gas/particulate phases and emissions from two municipal solid waste incinerators in Taiwan. Sci Total Environ, 2005, 347: 148–162

    Article  Google Scholar 

  40. Van den Berg M, Birnbaum L, Bosveld A T, et al. Toxic equivalency factors (TEFs) for PCBs, PCDDs, PCDFs for humans and wildlife. Environ Health Perspect, 1998, 106: 775–792

    Article  Google Scholar 

  41. Mukherjee A, Debnath B, Ghosh S K. A review on technologies of removal of dioxins and furans from incinerator flue gas. Procedia Environ Sci, 2016, 35: 528–540

    Article  Google Scholar 

  42. Ma Y, Lin X, Chen Z, et al. Influence factors and mass balance of memory effect on PCDD/F emissions from the full-scale municipal solid waste incineration in China. Chemosphere, 2020, 239: 124614

    Article  Google Scholar 

  43. Lin X, Ma Y, Chen Z, et al. Effect of different air pollution control devices on the gas/solid-phase distribution of PCDD/F in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator. Environ Pollution, 2020, 265: 114888

    Article  Google Scholar 

  44. Liljelind P, Unsworth J, Maaskant O, et al. Removal of dioxins and related aromatic hydrocarbons from flue gas streams by adsorption and catalytic destruction. Chemosphere, 2001, 42: 615–623

    Article  Google Scholar 

  45. Alcock R E, Sweetman A J, Anderson D R, et al. Using PCDD/F congener patterns to determine the source of elevated TEQ concentrations in cows milk: A case study. Chemosphere, 2002, 46: 383–391

    Article  Google Scholar 

  46. Colombo A, Benfenati E, Bugatti S G, et al. PCDD/Fs and PCBs in ambient air in a highly industrialized city in Northern Italy. Chemosphere, 2013, 90: 2352–2357

    Article  Google Scholar 

  47. Lv Z Y, Yu Y, Ren M, et al. Spraying polyacrylamide solution to improve the removal of particle-phase dioxins by bag filter in a full-scale municipal solid waste incineration system. Chemosphere, 2021, 285: 131392

    Article  Google Scholar 

  48. Stieglitz L. Selected topics on the de novo synthesis of PCDD/PCDF on fly ash. Environ Eng Sci, 1998, 15: 5–18

    Article  Google Scholar 

  49. Ma Y, Wang P, Lin X, et al. Formation and inhibition of polychlorinated-ρ-dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans from mechanical grate municipal solid waste incineration systems. J Hazard Mater, 2021, 403: 123812

    Article  Google Scholar 

  50. Ma Y, Lin X, Chen Z, et al. Influences of P-N-containing inhibitor and memory effect on PCDD/F emissions during the full-scale municipal solid waste incineration. Chemosphere, 2019, 228: 495–502

    Article  Google Scholar 

  51. Ji L, Cao X, Lu S, et al. Catalytic oxidation of PCDD/F on a V2O5−WO3/TiO2 catalyst: Effect of chlorinated benzenes and chlorinated phenols. J Hazard Mater, 2018, 342: 220–230

    Article  Google Scholar 

  52. Ishida M, Shiji R, Nie P, et al. Full-scale plant study on low temperature thermal dechlorination of PCDDs/PCDFs in fly ash. Chemosphere, 1998, 37: 2299–2308

    Article  Google Scholar 

  53. Bhavsar S P, Reiner E J, Hayton A, et al. Converting toxic equivalents (TEQ) of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds in fish from one toxic equivalency factor (TEF) scheme to another. Environ Int, 2008, 34: 915–921

    Article  Google Scholar 

Download references

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China

    PengJu Wang, Feng Yan, Feng Xie, JianJun Cai, XueHua Shen, XuanKun Wei & ZuoTai Zhang

  2. Key Laboratory of Municipal Solid Waste Recycling Technology and Management of Shenzhen City, Shenzhen, 518055, China

    Feng Yan & ZuoTai Zhang

  3. Shenzhen Energy Environment, Co., Ltd., Shenzhen, 518055, China

    JunBin Huang, ZhongZheng Li & RiGang Zhong

Authors
  1. PengJu Wang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Feng Yan
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Feng Xie
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  4. JianJun Cai
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  5. XueHua Shen
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  6. XuanKun Wei
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  7. JunBin Huang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  8. ZhongZheng Li
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  9. RiGang Zhong
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  10. ZuoTai Zhang
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Corresponding authors

Correspondence to Feng Yan or ZuoTai Zhang.

Additional information

This work was supported by the National Key R&D Program of China (Grant No. 2018YFC1902904), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 22008104), the Shenzhen Science and Technology Innovation Committee (Grant Nos. JCYJ20200109141642225, JCYJ20200109141227141, and JSGG20210713091810035), and the Shenzhen Peacock Plan (Grant No. KQTD20160226195840229). Additional support was provided by Basic and Applied Basic Research Foundation of Guangdong Province (Grant No. 2021A1515010148), Young S&T Talent Training Program of Guangdong Provincial Association for S&T (Grant No. SKXRC202230), and Guangdong Province Universities and Colleges Pearl River Scholar Funded Scheme 2018.

Supporting Information

The supporting information is available online at https://tech.scichina.com and https://link.springer.com. The supporting materials are published as submitted, without typesetting or editing. The responsibility for scientific accuracy and content remains entirely with the authors.

Supplementary data

11431_2022_2127_MOESM1_ESM.pdf

The co-removal of PCDD/Fs by SCR system in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator: Migration-transformation and decomposition pathways

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Wang, P., Yan, F., Xie, F. et al. The co-removal of PCDD/Fs by SCR system in a full-scale municipal solid waste incinerator: Migration-transformation and decomposition pathways. Sci. China Technol. Sci. 65, 2429–2441 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11431-022-2127-y

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11431-022-2127-y

Keywords

Search

Navigation