Characterization of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans, biphenyls, and heavy metals in fly ash produced from korean municipal solid waste incinerators

In this work, fly ash samples from Korean municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWIs) were analyzed for polychlorinated dibenzo p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and heavy metals. From the comparison of PCDD/Fs homologue patterns with fly ash and flue gas, it was shown that fly ash has a catalytic potential for PCDD/Fs generation in actual combustion. Also, from the relationship between total PCDD/Fs and MSWI operating temperature, the temperature manifested itself as the most important factor in generating PCDD/Fs. Small amounts of PCBs also were found in fly ash and showed a positive correlation with PCDD/Fs. Although large amounts of heavy metals were detected, they do not have a noticeable relationship with PCDD/Fs levels in fly ash. From leaching tests, trace amounts of PCDD/Fs and heavy metals were detected in the leachate.