Comprehensive performance evaluation of plasma vitrification for detoxification and valorization of residual wastes

This study explores the current state-of-the-art in the detoxification and valorization of solid residues from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI), especially fly ash, using plasma vitrification. The principles and advances in hazardous material elimination, resource recovery, and system integration using plasma vitrification for MSWI fly ash are identified. The global production and the characteristics of MSWI fly ash are first reviewed. Then, the features and principles of plasma technologies used for MSWI fly ash treatment from the thermodynamic and physical aspects are provided. The mechanisms of detoxification of MSWI fly ash from the perspectives of dioxins destruction and metal separation by plasma vitrification are also discussed. Moreover, the recovery methods of valuable elements for vitrified slag are introduced. Finally, the improvement pathways of plasma vitrification processes from the domains of engineering performance, environmental impact, and economic viability are suggested.