PCDD/Fs, PAHs and HCl emissions from co-combustion of lignite and chicken manure in a circulating fluidized bed boiler with compact refractory casting

Abstract

Chicken manure (CM) should be used in energy production due to its high production potential for the waste-to-energy approach. Co-combustion of CM with lignites may be a good practice in terms of reducing its environmental impact and the need for fossil fuels. However, the level of organic pollutants originated from CM combustion is not clear. This study investigated the potential of CM to be combusted in a circulating fluidized bed boiler (CFBB) with a local lignite. Combustion and co-combustion tests of CM and Kale Lignite (L) were performed in the CFBB to measure PCDD/Fs, PAHs and HCl emissions. CM burned in the upper parts of the boiler due to its high volatile matter content and low density compared to coal. This caused the bed temperature to decrease with the increase in the amount of CM in the fuel mixture. It was also observed that the combustion efficiency increased as the share of CM in the fuel mixture increased. Total PCDD/F emissions increased with CM share in the fuel mixture. However, all are less than emission limit value (100 pg I-TEQ/m3). Co-combustion of CM with lignite at different ratios did not have a significant effect on HCl emissions. PAH emissions were found to increase with the increase of the CM share when the CM share was more than 50% by weight.