ESTIMATING DICHLOROMETHANE EVOLUTION RATES FROM A SORBENT BED IN A FIELD-SCALE ROTARY KILN INCINERATOR

Estimates of dichloromethane evolution rates from the bed of a field-scale rotary kiln are provided during several modes of operation. The calculations of evolution rates are based on stoichiometry and combustion measurements; assumptions that are necessary due to practical limitations imposed on the experiments are discussed in detail in the paper. A sensitivity analysis of the calculation procedure is also discussed. Mass closures have been shown to range from 65 to 110% depending on the operating condition. Given the uncertainties associated with field-scale testing, these closures are quite remarkable. The calculation technique has also provided insight into the distribution of flow at the exit of the kiln under the different operating conditions that were studied. While most of these results are in agreement with previous empirical observations, others will require further study to determine whether the differences noted are an artifact of the calculation procedure. Although many uncertainties remain in describing the processes that occur during rotary kiln incineration, the results of this work assist in providing a much needed base of information for model development and validation.