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Plasma Torch Technology and its Applications to Waste Disposal. By Briana W. and Heather R. . Introduction.
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Plasma Torch Technologyand its Applications to Waste Disposal By Briana W. and Heather R. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Introduction The Plasma Torch applies plasma arc technology to the issue of waste management. Plasma arc technology is the use of a flame hotter than the surface of the sun to turn everything that it touches into the fourth state of matter (plasma). It takes in various types of garbage, and vaporizes most of it. What is produced is a gas that can be burnt for energy, and a solid black rock-like material, that has uses in construction. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Pros and Cons Pros: PTT reduces trash that otherwise would fill up landfills. It can dispose of bio hazardous waste safely. It produces useful materials and energy out of otherwise useless objects. Cons: PTT is extremely costly. It’s a complex setup that requires two separate factories to be productive. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Video Click the link below to go to the Geoplasma website. Geoplasma is one of the leading manufacturer of plasma torch facilities. There will be an animated intro and then you will need to click the ‘video’ link in the bottom right corner. http://geoplasma.com/ Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Locations of Current Facilities • St. Lucie County Florida • Utashinai, Japan • Yoshii, Japan Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Public Opinion Those who do understand the technology believe it is a worthwhile investment, but should be more cost effective. However, those who don’t understand the technology tend to be confused and frightened by the perceived dangers and complexities of the unknown technology. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Conclusion Plasma torch waste disposal is an interesting and useful application of plasma technology. However, until it can be made cheaper and easier to comprehend, it is unlikely that it will become popular among the general public. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Resources • Adachi, K., Amakawa, T., Inaba, T., Yasui, S. (1995). Fundamental research on thermal plasma technology for treatment of low-level radioactive solid waste. Electrical Engineering in Japan, 115 (5), 1-9. • Brown, S. (2004). Test-driving the destroyatron. Fortune, 149 (9). Retrieved March 18, 2008 from the ProQuest database. • Donovan, D., Post, T. (1999). Hot stuff. Forbes, 163 (3), 78-80. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Resources Con’t • Cofield, J., Nolting, E., Peterson, S., Richard, R. (1999). Organic waste disposal system. Retrieved March 18, 2008, from http://www.freepatentsonline.com. • Young,G.C. (2002). Trash to Gas Yields Power. Pollution Engineering, 38 (11), 26-29. • [Plasma Arc Technology] (2001). Hazardous waste landfill disposal and incineration. March 18,2008 from http://p2library.nfesc.navy.mil/P2_Opportunity_Handbook/2_II_10.html. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Resources Con’t • Leal-Quiros, E., Villafane, C. R. (2007). An assessment of the power generated with plasma processing of sludge from wastewater treatment plants. IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, 35 (6). Retrieved March 18, 2008, from the ProQuest database. • Park, J., Moon, Y., Park, B., Song, M., Ko, K., Cho, J. (2001). Non-combustible waste vitrification with plasma torch melter. Journal of Environmental Science & Health, Part A: Toxic/Hazardous Substances & Environmental Engineering, 36 (5), 861. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis
Resources Con’t • Bodurow, C. (2005). Plasma Arc Treatment of Municipal and Hazardous Wastes. March 18, 2008 from http://www.epa.gov/sciforum/2005/pdfs/oeiposter/Bodurow_OEI30.pdf. • [Plasma Arc Technology].March 18,2008 from http://www.cpeo.org/techtree/ttdescript/plarctech.htm. • Solena Group. The Commercial Viability of Plasma Arc Technology. March 18,2008 from http://www.solenagroup.com/html/images/plasma.pdf. Mercer University School of Engineering EGR 108 – Dr. Davis