Thermal decomposition of polyethylene agglomerates in a porous medium

Abstract

Fixed-bed combustion of compositions with polymeric materials (for example, municipal solid waste) is often difficult due to the agglomeration phenomenon: when heated, the waste particles swell and emit a significant amount of viscous products, resulting in formation of clumps of particles that have low air permeability. Using experimental and theoretical models, some features of the formation and decomposition of agglomerates are investigated. Samples of the agglomerates were prepared in a laboratory batch unit by heating a mixture of polyethylene granules and clay particles. Using a mathematical model, numerical calculations of the heating regimes were performed under the conditions of an experimental unit. A change in the shape of the agglomerate at different points in time is considered.