The content of heavy metals in the main physical compositions of municipal solid waste (MSW) is analyzed. The effects of temperature, chlorine and water on the partitioning of heavy metals are studied using a laboratory fluidized-bed (FB) furnace with simulated MSW com position. The experimental results show that temperature and chloride content in the feed have significant influence on the volatility of heavy metals, especially those of lower boiling point such as Hg, Cd and Zn. The influence of water is slight.