Gas-phase thermal hydrogenolysis of organic chlorine compounds: An alternative to incineration

Thermal hydrogenation of organic chlorine compounds is advanced as an alternative to incineration and as an environmentally sound process for conversion/ detoxification of industrial organic wastes.

The chemical reactions proceed at ca. 600–900° C and lead to HCl (and analogous derivatives of non-hydrocarbon functional groups) and a mixture of hydrocarbons, especially CH₄, C₂′s and benzene. There is little or no tar or soot formation. Toxins such as chlorinated dioxins are also effectively converted; the resulting products can be considered as a fuel. The requisite hydrogen can be supplied or made (in situ) from a source like methanol.