Characteristics of Particulate Matter and Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from the Combustion of Waste Vinyl

Vinyl samples were burned in a controlled environment to determine the characteristics of particulate matter (PM) and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions during the combustion process. Open burning of plastic or vinyl products poses several environmental and health risks in developed and developing countries, due to the release of high concentrations of harmful pollutants. The production of fine and ultrafine particles was significant. At a heat flux of 25 kW/m(2), the production of PM of 0.35 μm in size was highest at 63.0 μg/m(3). In comparison, at fluxes of 35 and 50 kW/m(2), the production of PM of 0.45 μm in size was highest with values of 67.8 and 87.7 μg/m(3), respectively. Benzene, acetone, and other toxic compounds were also identified in the analyses.