Thermodynamic behavior of metal chlorides and sulfates under the conditions of incineration furnaces

Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations using the program ChemSage predicted that all of the Hg present and most of the Cd and Pb volatilize. As and Sb also volatilize. Depending on the reduction conditions and on the amount of Cl present, the amounts of Zn and Cu volatilized. Mg, Ca, Fe and Ni do not volatilize under the oxidizing conditions. Many of the metals stabilize in sulfate phases in the presence of sulfur, but it has minimal effect above 800 degrees Centigrade. The volatilization of Sn as Sns may be favored under locally producing conditions. These calculations reproduce the observed behavior of metals in refuse incineration furnaces.