Formation and destruction of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the flaring of the biogas collected from an automotive shredded residues landfill

Abstract The paper shows the results of the combustion in an enclosed flare of the biogas collected from an automotive shredded residues landfill. The results demonstrate that at 1,000°C and long combustion, several synthesis reactions lead to the formation of 4 to 6 rings of PAHs. This formation also involves the formation of compounds such as benzo(g,h,i)perylene, indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene and dibenzo(a,h)anthracene not present in raw biogas. However, the compounds most likely to form in combustion are benzo (a) anthracene and benzo (b) fluoranthene. The only exception is chrysene which is significantly destroyed. The experience has proved the total lack of formation of PAHs with only 2 and 3 aromatic rings.