Corrosion and Deposits From Combustion of Solid Waste

Abstract

Combustion of solid waste in municipal incinerators has resulted in fouling and corrosion on heat transfer surfaces. The nature of these deposits and the extent of the corrosion has been investigated in a combined field and laboratory study. In addition to the elements normally found in boiler deposits, chlorine, lead, and zinc appeared in significant quantities in the incinerator deposits. Twenty specific compounds have been identified in the deposits. The presence of potassium, sulfur, chlorine, lead, and zinc in the corrosion product scale at the metal-deposit interface has been demonstrated. Corrosion resulting from the action of flue gases and accumulated deposits has been measured by means of probes exposed in large municipal incinerators. Mechanisms for the corrosion processes are suggested, and possible remedies are discussed.