PLASMIX management: LCA of six possible scenarios. (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cossu, R.; Garbo, F.; Girotto, F.; Simion, F.; Pivato, A.
• Is Part Of: Waste management. Volume 69(2017)
• Page Start: 567
• Page End: 576
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: Plastic recycling -- Plasmix -- Solid waste management -- Life cycle assessment; Hazardous wastes -- Periodicals; Refuse and refuse disposal -- Periodicals; 363.728
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2017.08.007
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0956-053X

Abstract

Highlights: A considerable amount of residues, commonly named as Plasmix, is generated during plastic recycling operations. Six treatment scenarios were compared using the LCA software EASEWASTE. Landfilling after waste washing and Plasmix substitution of coke in a blast furnace represent the most favorable options. Abstract: Only a small percentage of the separately collected plastic is recycled. The mechanical selection process of source segregated plastic materials generates considerable amounts of residues that are commonly named as Plasmix . By means of a life cycle assessment (LCA) modelling, the environmental performances of the main Plasmix management options (thermal treatment, energy recovery, and landfilling) were compared. Six treatment scenarios, with different pre-treatment alternatives, were evaluated. Landfilling after waste washing and Plasmix substitution of coke in a blast furnace represent the most favorable options, since the performances of thermal treatment and energy recovery are worsened by specific emissions of a variety of toxic compounds and heavy metals within plastic materials as additives.