Formation of dioxins and furans in waste incineration residues from structurally formatting PAH precursor molecules

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The issue of dioxins (PCDD- polychlorinated dibenzodioxins) and furans (PCDF- polychlorinated dibenzofurans) in the environment are of considerable public concern. Their association with emissions from municipal solid waste incineration contributing significantly to the debate surrounding the public acceptability of the technology. We have spent several years investigating the reactions of PCDD/PCDF on flyash in waste incinerators. It is clear that PCDD/PCDF are formed on flyash by reactions of precursor compounds or by de novo synthesis involving carbon. The formation of PCDD/PCDF is an extremely complex mechanism, requiring further research. The aim of this present research proposal is to investigate a range of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and oxygenated PAH to determine the influence of the chemical structure of those compounds as potential 'precursor' molecules for the formation of PCDD/PCDF in flyash. This data is important in understanding the formation mechanisms of PCDD/PCDF and hence is key to the development of step change control strategies for the elimination or reduction of PCDD/PCDF formation in flyash and air pollution control residues.