Applications of Plasma Technologies in Recycling Processes

Abstract

Plasmas are reactive ionised gases, which enable the creation of unique reaction fields. This allows plasmas to be widely used for a variety of chemical processes for materials, recycling among others. Because of the increase in urgency to find more sustainable methods of waste management, plasmas have been enthusiastically applied to recycling processes. This review presents recent developments of plasma technologies for recycling linked to economical models of circular economy and waste management hierarchies, exemplifying the thermal decomposition of organic components or substances, the recovery of inorganic materials like metals, the treatment of paper, wind turbine waste, and electronic waste. It is discovered that thermal plasmas are most applicable to thermal processes, whereas nonthermal plasmas are often applied in different contexts which utilise their chemical selectivity. Most applications of plasmas in recycling are successful, but there is room for advancements in applications. Additionally, further perspectives are discussed.

From Waste to Renewables: Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling Glass Fibre Composite Products from Wind Turbine Blades for Sustainable Cement Production

“…High-pressure water jets, often mixed with abrasive materials, are used to cut turbine blades, the high-velocity jet eroding the material. A major advantage is the lack of heat generation, thus avoiding warping of the material [41]. However, it is a slow process with a high financial overhead of USD 15-50 per hour of operation, plus the cost of water, electricity, and abrasives.…”