A Bioenvironmental Study of Emissions from Refuse Derived Fuel

Refuse derived fuel (processed municipal solid waste) was used as a supplement to coal in a utility boiler (80,000 lbs. steam per hour). Furnance emissions were determined from coal, and from 1:1 and 2:1 mixes (by volume) of refuse derived fuel (RDF) and coal respectively. In comparison with coal, the 1:1 mix had significantly lower sulfur dioxide, hydrocarbon and nitrogen oxide emission levels. Particulate emissions were unchanged. Lead, chloride and fluoride emissions were significantly increased. The 2:1 mix had lower SO2 and HC emission levels but higher Nitrogen oxide emissions and erratic particulate emissions. Lead, chloride and fluoride emissions were significantly increased. Operators had difficulty controlling furnance temperature, fuel distribution and fuel: air ratios during use of the 2:1 mix. Except for increased lead emissions, the use of RDF in a 1:1 mix with coal was favorably indicated. The increased emission of lead creates a complex environmental question. No Federal emission or air quality standard for lead has been promulgated and scientific controversy exists as to an 'accepted' level for airborne lead. The EPA has not proposed any standards, but has issued an opinion calling for the reduction of lead whenever possible. Any planned use of RDF in units not equipped with efficient particulate control devices (efficient forsubmicrometer particles) must address the problem of increased lead emission. Lead was found predominantly in the submicrometer particle size fraction. Particles in the stack effluent contained 245 times more lead than particles collected by a multiclone.