Removal of chromium and aluminum from aqueous solutions using refuse derived char

Abstract

Refuse derived fuel (RDF) was subject to torrefaction in order to produce a char with higher homogeneity and lower moisture content than the RDF raw materials. The resulting product, RDF char, showed increased fixed carbon and ash contents, decreased moisture and volatile matter contents, and a very significant increase in density. The torrefaction of RDF may therefore contribute to reduce the landfill volume needed to accommodate these materials to one third of the presently used. This new char material was also tested for its adsorption capacities and the results show that it could be used for the removal of chromium and aluminum from aqueous solutions.