The Fate of Trace Elements in the Co-combustion of Municipal Solid Waste and Sludge based on Thermodynamic Equilibrium Calculation Approach

Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations were performed to determine the distribution of potentially toxic elements in the co-combustion of waste and sludge. The effects of temperature, pressure and atmospheres on equilibrium composition were evaluated. The results showed that: Under oxidizing conditions, HCl was a key factor influencing the distribution of trace element besides temperature. The participation of HCl served to decrease the retention in ash of Zn and Cu. Hg and Pb were released at lower temperatures in gas atmosphere containing HCl. The participation of SO₂ served to increase the retention in ash of Ni. Sludge moisture content had little effect on the release of trace elements.