WO1989006167A1 - Asbestos decomposition - Google Patents
Asbestos decomposition Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO1989006167A1 WO1989006167A1 PCT/US1989/000057 US8900057W WO8906167A1 WO 1989006167 A1 WO1989006167 A1 WO 1989006167A1 US 8900057 W US8900057 W US 8900057W WO 8906167 A1 WO8906167 A1 WO 8906167A1
- Authority
- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- mixture
- asbestos
- reacting
- sulfuric acid
- produce
- Prior art date
Links
- 239000010425 asbestos Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 48
- 229910052895 riebeckite Inorganic materials 0.000 title claims abstract description 48
- 238000000354 decomposition reaction Methods 0.000 title abstract description 26
- QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-N Sulfuric acid Chemical compound OS(O)(=O)=O QAOWNCQODCNURD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 41
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 39
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 34
- 239000003795 chemical substances by application Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 239000000314 lubricant Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 14
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 13
- AXCZMVOFGPJBDE-UHFFFAOYSA-L calcium dihydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[OH-].[Ca+2] AXCZMVOFGPJBDE-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000000920 calcium hydroxide Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 235000011116 calcium hydroxide Nutrition 0.000 claims description 7
- 229910001861 calcium hydroxide Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 7
- TWRXJAOTZQYOKJ-UHFFFAOYSA-L Magnesium chloride Chemical compound [Mg+2].[Cl-].[Cl-] TWRXJAOTZQYOKJ-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 claims description 6
- UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L Calcium chloride Chemical compound [Cl-].[Cl-].[Ca+2] UXVMQQNJUSDDNG-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000008733 Citrus aurantifolia Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910021578 Iron(III) chloride Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000011941 Tilia x europaea Nutrition 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000001110 calcium chloride Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910001628 calcium chloride Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- RBTARNINKXHZNM-UHFFFAOYSA-K iron trichloride Chemical compound Cl[Fe](Cl)Cl RBTARNINKXHZNM-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004571 lime Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229910001629 magnesium chloride Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000178 monomer Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 229920003169 water-soluble polymer Polymers 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002245 particle Substances 0.000 claims 7
- 230000003472 neutralizing effect Effects 0.000 claims 4
- 239000007795 chemical reaction product Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 231100000252 nontoxic Toxicity 0.000 claims 1
- 230000003000 nontoxic effect Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 abstract description 23
- 238000007711 solidification Methods 0.000 abstract description 6
- 230000008023 solidification Effects 0.000 abstract description 6
- 238000001311 chemical methods and process Methods 0.000 abstract description 4
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 15
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 description 9
- 238000006243 chemical reaction Methods 0.000 description 6
- 150000007513 acids Chemical class 0.000 description 5
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 5
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 5
- -1 e.g. Substances 0.000 description 4
- 230000036961 partial effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- CSNNHWWHGAXBCP-UHFFFAOYSA-L Magnesium sulfate Chemical compound [Mg+2].[O-][S+2]([O-])([O-])[O-] CSNNHWWHGAXBCP-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 3
- DNIAPMSPPWPWGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N Propylene glycol Chemical compound CC(O)CO DNIAPMSPPWPWGF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Silicium dioxide Chemical compound O=[Si]=O VYPSYNLAJGMNEJ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N Glycerine Chemical compound OCC(O)CO PEDCQBHIVMGVHV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 239000011398 Portland cement Substances 0.000 description 2
- OSGAYBCDTDRGGQ-UHFFFAOYSA-L calcium sulfate Chemical compound [Ca+2].[O-]S([O-])(=O)=O OSGAYBCDTDRGGQ-UHFFFAOYSA-L 0.000 description 2
- 235000011132 calcium sulphate Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000004090 dissolution Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000010881 fly ash Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000007062 hydrolysis Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000006460 hydrolysis reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009413 insulation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052943 magnesium sulfate Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 235000019341 magnesium sulphate Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- 238000006386 neutralization reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002893 slag Substances 0.000 description 2
- CWBIFDGMOSWLRQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N trimagnesium;hydroxy(trioxido)silane;hydrate Chemical compound O.[Mg+2].[Mg+2].[Mg+2].O[Si]([O-])([O-])[O-].O[Si]([O-])([O-])[O-] CWBIFDGMOSWLRQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 208000033116 Asbestos intoxication Diseases 0.000 description 1
- OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N Calcium Chemical compound [Ca] OYPRJOBELJOOCE-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 206010058467 Lung neoplasm malignant Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010027406 Mesothelioma Diseases 0.000 description 1
- BPQQTUXANYXVAA-UHFFFAOYSA-N Orthosilicate Chemical compound [O-][Si]([O-])([O-])[O-] BPQQTUXANYXVAA-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004698 Polyethylene Substances 0.000 description 1
- 206010003441 asbestosis Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000006227 byproduct Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000011575 calcium Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052791 calcium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000000470 constituent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000018044 dehydration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006297 dehydration reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001784 detoxification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011038 discontinuous diafiltration by volume reduction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 201000010099 disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000037265 diseases, disorders, signs and symptoms Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012467 final product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000011187 glycerol Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 239000000383 hazardous chemical Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000036541 health Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005802 health problem Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000265 homogenisation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910052500 inorganic mineral Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 201000005202 lung cancer Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000020816 lung neoplasm Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000011707 mineral Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000010755 mineral Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003647 oxidation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007254 oxidation reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005554 pickling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000573 polyethylene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000009257 reactivity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 208000023504 respiratory system disease Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 239000011369 resultant mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004576 sand Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000377 silicon dioxide Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000011149 sulphuric acid Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 231100000331 toxic Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000002588 toxic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62D—CHEMICAL MEANS FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES OR FOR COMBATING OR PROTECTING AGAINST HARMFUL CHEMICAL AGENTS; CHEMICAL MATERIALS FOR USE IN BREATHING APPARATUS
- A62D3/00—Processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless or less harmful, by effecting a chemical change in the substances
- A62D3/30—Processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless or less harmful, by effecting a chemical change in the substances by reacting with chemical agents
- A62D3/36—Detoxification by using acid or alkaline reagents
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B09—DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE; RECLAMATION OF CONTAMINATED SOIL
- B09B—DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B09B3/00—Destroying solid waste or transforming solid waste into something useful or harmless
- B09B3/0066—Disposal of asbestos
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62D—CHEMICAL MEANS FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES OR FOR COMBATING OR PROTECTING AGAINST HARMFUL CHEMICAL AGENTS; CHEMICAL MATERIALS FOR USE IN BREATHING APPARATUS
- A62D2101/00—Harmful chemical substances made harmless, or less harmful, by effecting chemical change
- A62D2101/40—Inorganic substances
- A62D2101/41—Inorganic fibres, e.g. asbestos
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62D—CHEMICAL MEANS FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES OR FOR COMBATING OR PROTECTING AGAINST HARMFUL CHEMICAL AGENTS; CHEMICAL MATERIALS FOR USE IN BREATHING APPARATUS
- A62D2203/00—Aspects of processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless, or less harmful, by effecting chemical change in the substances
- A62D2203/02—Combined processes involving two or more distinct steps covered by groups A62D3/10 - A62D3/40
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62D—CHEMICAL MEANS FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES OR FOR COMBATING OR PROTECTING AGAINST HARMFUL CHEMICAL AGENTS; CHEMICAL MATERIALS FOR USE IN BREATHING APPARATUS
- A62D2203/00—Aspects of processes for making harmful chemical substances harmless, or less harmful, by effecting chemical change in the substances
- A62D2203/04—Combined processes involving two or more non-distinct steps covered by groups A62D3/10 - A62D3/40
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to the field of processing and decomposition of hazardous materials. Specifically, the present invention provides an effective method for decomposing and disposing asbestos.
- the process provided by the present invention is intended to provide an effective method for decomposing and effectively disposing of asbestos-related compounds.
- Summary of the Invention The present invention provides an effective solution to the problem of decomposing and disposing of asbestos compounds through the use of a two part chemical process.
- the first step in the chemical process involves the decomposition of asbestos through the use of sulfuric acid.
- the first step can be implemented in two stages. In the first stage, concentrated sulfuric acid is used to decompose the asbestos components. In the second stage, relative dilute sulfuric acid is used to totally decompose the soluble decomposition components remaining from the first stage.
- the acid used in the first step of the process can be either new or waste sulfuric acid.
- the second step of the process involves the solidification of the products resulting from the decomposition step.
- the efficacy of the invention process is enhanced by the use of a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance, e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials.
- a lubricating agent e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials.
- a cementitious or pozzolanic substance e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials.
- the asbestos treated with the invention process is decomposed and forms a solidified mixture which can be easily handled and safely disposed of at a disposal site.
- the process of the present invention is broadly comprised of two steps.
- the first step is decomposition of the asbestos and the second step is the solidification of the products resulting from the first step so that the final product is nonhazardous.
- the specific process of the present invention decomposes and fixes or solidifies waste asbestos with a series of novel chemical reactions involving sulfuric acid, a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance, e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials.
- the process of the present invention is extremely efficient and can decompose asbestos into rejuvinated silica which can be reclaimed and used as a constituent in numerous subsequent applications.
- the process of the present invention comprises two steps.
- the first step involves the decomposition of asbestos and the other is the solidification of the products of decomposition.
- Sulfuric acid is used to decompose asbestos.
- the acid may be new or waste sulfuric acid.
- Chrysotile asbestos typically the following chemical reaction will occur when the pH value of the acid is less than 2:
- step 1 Mg3(Si2 ⁇ 5)(OH)4 + 3 H2SO4 — > 3 MgS04 + 2 Si ⁇ 2 + 5 H2O Excess acid is used to complete the reaction. Silicate (sand) and Magnesium sulfate are formed through this reaction. Often, the decomposition step (step 1) requires two stages.
- the sulfuric acid used in the above- described first stage has a concentration ranging between 70 percent weight and 98 percent weight, with the preferable concentration being approximately 90 percent weight.
- the sulfuric acid used in the second stage has a concentration of less than 50 percent weight, with the preferable concentration being approximately 30 percent weight.
- the mixture must have a pH value below 2 and preferably below 1 to ensure the essentially complete decomposition of the asbestos.
- lime or hydrated lime is added to increase the pH value of the mixture to near 7.
- calcium sulfate is formed.
- a mixture of calcium and magnesium sulfates is cementitious.
- Other asbestos are decomposed through similar reactions.
- the lubricating agent and accelerating agent is added to the mixture. This is followed by addition of a pozzolanic material to accomplish solidification.
- the interparticle lubricant used in the present invention accelerates the homogenization of the mixture while solidifying the waste.
- the accelerating agent is used to accelerate the rates of cementation processes.
- the lubricating agent is formed by dispersing water-soluble polymer (e.g., polyethylene glycol-2000) or monomer (e.g., propylene glycol and glycerine) or a mixture of them into the water.
- the viscosity of the mixture is increased and consequently the diffusivity of every component participating in cementation processes is reduced, thereby decelerating the rates of these processes.
- the accelerating agent contains ferric chloride, or a similar substance, e.g., calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or a mixture of these substances. While the rates of cementation processes occurring through the mixture are retarded by the lubricating agent at the outset of the reaction, these rates will gradually be enhanced. Although the chemical reactivity of these compounds are initially inhibited by the lubricating agent, the accelerating agent will eventually participate in accelerating the rates of the cementation processes.
- the decomposition and solidification process provided by the present invention offers numerous advantages, including the following: 1) co-disposal with waste acid, e.g., pickling acid, possible; 2) decomposition of asbestos (detoxification) accomplished; 3) significant volume reduction attained; 4) high degree of safety is maintained - no generation of hazardous or toxic by-product such as gaseous HC1, gaseous HF, Cl2 and F2 when other acids are used; room temperature and atmosphere operation.
- the operation of the process provided by the present invention can be understood by the following summary of steps and examples: FIRST EXAMPLE OF ASBESTOS DECOMPOSITION PROCESS
- Step 1 Add 160.00 grams of 36% sulfuric acid Step 2. Add 40.00 grams of Chrysotile asbestos Step 3. Add 20.00 grams of water Step 4. Add 20.00 grams of calcium hydroxide Step 5. Add 6.00 grams of accelerating agent Step 6. Add 14.00 grams of lubricating agent Step 7. Add 180.00 grams of pozzolanic materials
- the ratios of the chemicals and the steps used in the first example described above is especially efficient for decomposing and disposing of asbestos containing relatively small amounts of foreign matter.
- the time required for decomposition is extremely short — on the order of ten to twenty minutes depending on the mode of operation and the concentration of the acid used. Variations in the concentration of the acid can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.
- pure acids, diluted or waste acids can be used.
- the additional water used in step 3 is used to render the mixture homogeneous.
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- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Toxicology (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- General Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Emergency Management (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Processing Of Solid Wastes (AREA)
- Catalysts (AREA)
- Carbon And Carbon Compounds (AREA)
- Organic Low-Molecular-Weight Compounds And Preparation Thereof (AREA)
Abstract
A method for decomposing and disposing of asbestos compounds through the use of a two part chemical process. The first step in the chemical process involves the decomposition of asbetos through the use of sulfuric acid. The second step of the process involves the solidification of the products resulting from the decomposition step. The efficacy of the invention process is enhanced by the use of a lubricating agent, an accelarating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance. The asbestos treated with the invention process is decomposed and forms a solidified mixture which can be easily handled and safely disposed of at a disposal site.
Description
ASBESTOS DECOMPOSITION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to the field of processing and decomposition of hazardous materials. Specifically, the present invention provides an effective method for decomposing and disposing asbestos.
Background Asbestos contamination in buildings around the world is a serious health problem which has been the subject of intense controversy in recent years. Once considered the "miracle mineral" in the insulation industry, asbestos has been positively linked to respiratory diseases. Examples of asbestos-related diseases include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. A survey by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.) estimates that asbestos in various forms has been used in insulation in more than 30,000 public schools and 730,000 public or commercial buildings. A general industry to abate or remove offending asbestos has been developed in the United States to address the problems discussed above. In addition, a regulation for asbestos issued by the Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration for asbestos requires very special handling and ultimate disposal of the waste products produced by the asbestos abatement industry. The process provided by the present invention is intended to provide an effective method for decomposing and effectively disposing of asbestos-related compounds.
Summary of the Invention The present invention provides an effective solution to the problem of decomposing and disposing of asbestos compounds through the use of a two part chemical process. The first step in the chemical process involves the decomposition of asbestos through the use of sulfuric acid. The first step can be implemented in two stages. In the first stage, concentrated sulfuric acid is used to decompose the asbestos components. In the second stage, relative dilute sulfuric acid is used to totally decompose the soluble decomposition components remaining from the first stage. The acid used in the first step of the process can be either new or waste sulfuric acid. The second step of the process involves the solidification of the products resulting from the decomposition step. The efficacy of the invention process is enhanced by the use of a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance, e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials. The asbestos treated with the invention process is decomposed and forms a solidified mixture which can be easily handled and safely disposed of at a disposal site.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiment In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an improved method and process for the decomposition and disposal of asbestos compounds. The process of the present invention is broadly comprised of two steps. The first step is decomposition of the asbestos and the second step is the solidification of the products resulting from the first step so that the final product is nonhazardous. The specific process of the present invention decomposes and fixes or solidifies waste asbestos with a series of novel chemical reactions involving sulfuric acid, a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance, e.g., Portland cement, ground blast-furnace slag, cement-kiln dust, fly ash or microsilicate, or a mixture of cementitious and pozzolanic materials. The process of the present invention is extremely efficient and can decompose asbestos into rejuvinated silica which can be reclaimed and used as a constituent in numerous subsequent applications. Using the decomposition process of the present invention, therefore, the asbestos is decomposed and forms a solidified mixture which can be easily handled and safely disposed of at a disposal site. The process of the present invention comprises two steps. The first step involves the decomposition of asbestos and the other is the solidification of the products of decomposition. Sulfuric acid is used to decompose asbestos. The acid may be new or waste sulfuric acid. With Chrysotile asbestos, typically the following chemical reaction will occur when the pH value of the acid is less than 2:
Mg3(Si2θ5)(OH)4 + 3 H2SO4 — > 3 MgS04 + 2 Siθ2 + 5 H2O
Excess acid is used to complete the reaction. Silicate (sand) and Magnesium sulfate are formed through this reaction. Often, the decomposition step (step 1) requires two stages. In the first stage, concentrated sulfuric acid is used to effect, through dehydration or oxidation and partial hydrolysis, the following: a) detachment of asbestos from the solid object to which it is attached; b) disintegration, and partial decomposition and dissolution of the container of asbestos; c) disintegration, and partial decomposition and dissolution of the components other than asbestos; and d) loosening, breakage and partial decomposition of the asbestos structure. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sulfuric acid used in the above- described first stage has a concentration ranging between 70 percent weight and 98 percent weight, with the preferable concentration being approximately 90 percent weight. In the second stage, relatively dilute spent or fresh sulfuric acid at a lower concentration is used to totally decompose and dissolve soluble decomposition products through hydrolysis. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the sulfuric acid used in the second stage has a concentration of less than 50 percent weight, with the preferable concentration being approximately 30 percent weight. At the end of the decomposition step, the mixture must have a pH value below 2 and preferably below 1 to ensure the essentially complete decomposition of the asbestos. Before solidifying the resultant mixture with pozzolanic materials, lime or hydrated lime is added to increase the pH value of the mixture to near 7. During the neutralization, calcium sulfate is formed. A mixture of calcium and magnesium sulfates is cementitious. Other asbestos are decomposed through similar reactions. After neutralization, the lubricating agent and accelerating agent is added to the mixture. This is followed by addition of a pozzolanic material to accomplish
solidification. The interparticle lubricant used in the present invention accelerates the homogenization of the mixture while solidifying the waste. The accelerating agent is used to accelerate the rates of cementation processes. In the preferred embodiment of the process of the present invention, the lubricating agent is formed by dispersing water-soluble polymer (e.g., polyethylene glycol-2000) or monomer (e.g., propylene glycol and glycerine) or a mixture of them into the water. The viscosity of the mixture is increased and consequently the diffusivity of every component participating in cementation processes is reduced, thereby decelerating the rates of these processes. The accelerating agent contains ferric chloride, or a similar substance, e.g., calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or a mixture of these substances. While the rates of cementation processes occurring through the mixture are retarded by the lubricating agent at the outset of the reaction, these rates will gradually be enhanced. Although the chemical reactivity of these compounds are initially inhibited by the lubricating agent, the accelerating agent will eventually participate in accelerating the rates of the cementation processes. The decomposition and solidification process provided by the present invention offers numerous advantages, including the following: 1) co-disposal with waste acid, e.g., pickling acid, possible; 2) decomposition of asbestos (detoxification) accomplished; 3) significant volume reduction attained; 4) high degree of safety is maintained - no generation of hazardous or toxic by-product such as gaseous HC1, gaseous HF, Cl2 and F2 when other acids are used; room temperature and atmosphere operation. The operation of the process provided by the present invention can be understood by the following summary of steps and examples:
FIRST EXAMPLE OF ASBESTOS DECOMPOSITION PROCESS
Step 1. Add 160.00 grams of 36% sulfuric acid Step 2. Add 40.00 grams of Chrysotile asbestos Step 3. Add 20.00 grams of water Step 4. Add 20.00 grams of calcium hydroxide Step 5. Add 6.00 grams of accelerating agent Step 6. Add 14.00 grams of lubricating agent Step 7. Add 180.00 grams of pozzolanic materials
The ratios of the chemicals and the steps used in the first example described above is especially efficient for decomposing and disposing of asbestos containing relatively small amounts of foreign matter. The time required for decomposition is extremely short — on the order of ten to twenty minutes depending on the mode of operation and the concentration of the acid used. Variations in the concentration of the acid can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, pure acids, diluted or waste acids can be used. The additional water used in step 3 is used to render the mixture homogeneous.
SECOND EXAMPLE OF ASBESTOS DECOMPOSITION
Add 10.00 grams of 96% sulfuric acid in a beaker
Add 140.00 grams of waste
Add 66.70 grams of 30% sulfuric acid
Add 33.30 grams of water
Add 15.00 grams of calcium hydroxide
Step 6. Add 10.00 grams of accelerating agent Step 7. Add 15.00 grams of lubricating agent Step 8. Add 80.00 grams of pozzolanic materials The ratios of chemicals and the steps described in the second example described above is especially efficient for decomposing and disposing of asbestos containing relatively large amounts of foreign matter. The time required for decomposition is extremely short — on the order of one to five minutes depending on the mode of operation and the concentration and amount of the acid used. As was the case for the first example, variations in the concentration of the acid can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Again, pure acids, diluted or waste acids can be used. The additional water used in step 4 is used to render the mixture homogeneous. While the method of the present invention has been described in connection with the preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the invention to the specific form set forth herein, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A method for decomposing asbestos containing relatively small amounts of foreign matter, comprising the steps of: reacting a quantity of material containing asbestos with a quantity of sulfuric acid to produce a first mixture, said first mixture containing reaction products comprising completely decomposed particles of said asbestos, said first mixture having a pH value of less than 2; reacting said first mixture with a neutralizing agent to produce a second mixture, said second mixture having a pH value of approximately 7,; and reacting said second mixture with a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent, and a cementitious or pozzolanic substance to produce a third mixture, said third mixture comprising a solidified compound containing said decomposed particles of said asbestos, said solidified mixture providing effective containment of said asbestos particles.
2. The method according to claim 1, said step of reacting said material containing asbestos to produce a first mixture, comprising the step of reacting said material with a quantity of sulfuric acid having a concentration of between 15 and 70 percent weight, preferably 50 percent weight.
3. The method according to claim 2, said neutralizing agent being selected from the group consisting of alkaline materials, preferably of lime, hydrated lime or calcium hydroxide.
4. The method according to claim 3, said accelerating agent being selected from the group consisting of calcium chloride, ferric chloride, and magnesium chloride.
5. The method according to claim 4, said lubricating agent being selected from the group consisting of water-soluble polymers or monomers.
6. A method for decomposing asbestos containing relatively large amounts of foreign matter, comprising the steps of: reacting a quantity of material containing asbestos with a first quantity of sulfuric acid, said first quantity of sulfuric acid having a concentration of between 70 and 98 percent weight, to produce a first mixture containing partially decomposed asbestos particles; and reacting said first mixture with a second quantity of sulfuric acid, said second quantity of sulfuric acid having a concentration of less than 50 percent weight, to produce a second mixture containing completely decomposed particles of asbestos, said second mixture having a pH value of less than 2.
7. The method according to claim 6, further comprising the step of reacting said second mixture with a neutralizing agent to produce a third mixture containing said completely decomposed particles of asbestos, and having a pH value of approximately 7.
8. The method according to claim 7, further comprising the step of solidifying said third mixture with a lubricating agent, an accelerating agent and a cementitous or pozzolanic substance to produce a nontoxic material containing said completely decomposed particles of asbestos.
9. The method according to claim 8, said neutralizing agent being selected from the group consisting of alkaline materials, preferably lime, hydrated lime or calcium hydroxide.
10. The method according to claim 9, said accelerating agent being selected from the group consisting of calcium chloride, ferric chloride, and magnesium chloride.
11. The method according to claim 10, said lubricating agent being selected from the group consisting of water-soluble polymers or monomers.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP89903446A EP0348502B1 (en) | 1988-01-07 | 1989-01-06 | Asbestos decomposition |
DE68924203T DE68924203T2 (en) | 1988-01-07 | 1989-01-06 | DECOMPOSITION OF ASBEST. |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US141,541 | 1988-01-07 | ||
US07/141,541 US4818143A (en) | 1988-01-07 | 1988-01-07 | Asbestos decomposition |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO1989006167A1 true WO1989006167A1 (en) | 1989-07-13 |
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ID=22496143
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US1989/000057 WO1989006167A1 (en) | 1988-01-07 | 1989-01-06 | Asbestos decomposition |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US4818143A (en) |
EP (1) | EP0348502B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JPH04503182A (en) |
AT (1) | ATE127714T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU3850089A (en) |
DE (1) | DE68924203T2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO1989006167A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1993018867A1 (en) * | 1992-03-23 | 1993-09-30 | Lemmerbrock, Karl-Heinrich | Process for disposal of asbestos or substances containing it |
Families Citing this family (19)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
EP0372084B1 (en) * | 1988-04-30 | 1994-08-10 | Solvay Umweltchemie GmbH | Asbestos-treating agent and process for treating asbestos |
EP0402306A1 (en) * | 1989-06-05 | 1990-12-12 | Raymond F. Funderburk | Process and active substance for solidifying and immobilising hazardous wastes in the liquid or semi-liquid phase |
DE4139927A1 (en) * | 1991-12-04 | 1993-06-09 | Solvay Umweltchemie Gmbh | USE OF RESIDUE OF ASBESTIC DECOMPOSITION AS AN ADDITIONAL MATERIAL FOR BUILDING MATERIALS |
DE4206313A1 (en) * | 1992-02-28 | 1993-09-02 | Solvay Umweltchemie Gmbh | METHOD FOR THE DISPOSAL OF RADIOACTIVELY CONTAMINATED ASBEST |
DK44393D0 (en) * | 1993-04-20 | 1993-04-20 | Rockwool Int | PROCEDURE FOR THE CONVERSION OF AN ASBEST CEMENT PRODUCT TO A HEALTHY HAZARDOUS PRODUCT |
US5753035A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-05-19 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Composition and method to remove asbestos |
US5753032A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-05-19 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Composition and method to remove asbestos |
US5753033A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-05-19 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Composition and method to remove asbestos |
US5753034A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-05-19 | W. R. Grace & Co. -Conn. | Composition and method to remove asbestos |
US5763738A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-06-09 | Associated Universities, Inc. | Chemical agents for conversion of chrysotile asbestos into non-hazardous materials |
US5743841A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-04-28 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Foam composition for treating asbestos-containing materials and method of using same |
US5741358A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-04-21 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Corrosion inhibiting composition for treating asbestos containing materials |
US5753031A (en) * | 1996-09-27 | 1998-05-19 | W. R. Grace & Co.-Conn. | Composition and method to remove asbestos |
US6160195A (en) * | 1999-01-22 | 2000-12-12 | Brookhaven Science Associates | Use of reagents to convert chrysotile and amosite asbestos used as insulation or protection for metal surfaces |
FR2839665B1 (en) * | 2002-05-14 | 2004-08-06 | Bruno Vaisse | SOIL ASBESTOSATION PROCESS |
US7914618B1 (en) * | 2004-07-28 | 2011-03-29 | VCNA Prairie IP, Inc. | Flowable cement-based material and methods of manufacturing and using same |
US20060106272A1 (en) * | 2004-11-16 | 2006-05-18 | Brown Paul W | In-situ treatment of asbestos-containing material |
US20060111604A1 (en) * | 2004-11-22 | 2006-05-25 | Leonidas Petrakis | Method for applying asbestos digestion chemical to asbestos-containing materials |
JP6224376B2 (en) * | 2012-08-16 | 2017-11-01 | 学校法人北里研究所 | Asbestos detoxification treatment method |
Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3378615A (en) * | 1964-04-15 | 1968-04-16 | Mifalei Yam Hamelah | Process for the manufacture of lowporosity burnt magnesia |
US4131661A (en) * | 1977-04-07 | 1978-12-26 | Raybestos-Manhattan, Inc. | Waste asbestos recovery from production of asbestos products |
US4328197A (en) * | 1980-01-08 | 1982-05-04 | Flow General, Inc. | Metal-micelle asbestos and treatment of asbestos and other silicate minerals to reduce their harmful properties |
US4476235A (en) * | 1982-11-24 | 1984-10-09 | Societe Nationale De Liamiante | Green molded product containing asbestos tailings suitable for firing |
US4678493A (en) * | 1983-11-21 | 1987-07-07 | King Taudevin & Gregson (Holdings) Limited | Vitrification of asbestos waste |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3708014A (en) * | 1971-06-23 | 1973-01-02 | Phillips Petroleum Co | Hydrochloric acid/hydrofluoric acid treatment to remove asbestos fibers from a well bore |
CA1077176A (en) * | 1977-04-04 | 1980-05-06 | Centre De Recherche Industrielle Du Quebec | Process for neutralizing waste sulfuric acids |
CA1280449C (en) * | 1986-07-08 | 1991-02-19 | Liang-Tseng Fan | Chemical reagent and process for the disposal of waste |
-
1988
- 1988-01-07 US US07/141,541 patent/US4818143A/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1989
- 1989-01-06 AT AT89903446T patent/ATE127714T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1989-01-06 AU AU38500/89A patent/AU3850089A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1989-01-06 DE DE68924203T patent/DE68924203T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1989-01-06 EP EP89903446A patent/EP0348502B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1989-01-06 JP JP1503047A patent/JPH04503182A/en active Pending
- 1989-01-06 WO PCT/US1989/000057 patent/WO1989006167A1/en active IP Right Grant
Patent Citations (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3378615A (en) * | 1964-04-15 | 1968-04-16 | Mifalei Yam Hamelah | Process for the manufacture of lowporosity burnt magnesia |
US4131661A (en) * | 1977-04-07 | 1978-12-26 | Raybestos-Manhattan, Inc. | Waste asbestos recovery from production of asbestos products |
US4328197A (en) * | 1980-01-08 | 1982-05-04 | Flow General, Inc. | Metal-micelle asbestos and treatment of asbestos and other silicate minerals to reduce their harmful properties |
US4476235A (en) * | 1982-11-24 | 1984-10-09 | Societe Nationale De Liamiante | Green molded product containing asbestos tailings suitable for firing |
US4678493A (en) * | 1983-11-21 | 1987-07-07 | King Taudevin & Gregson (Holdings) Limited | Vitrification of asbestos waste |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1993018867A1 (en) * | 1992-03-23 | 1993-09-30 | Lemmerbrock, Karl-Heinrich | Process for disposal of asbestos or substances containing it |
LT3092B (en) | 1992-03-23 | 1994-11-25 | Lemmerbrock Karl Heinrich | Method for destroying asbestos or asbestic materials |
US5562585A (en) * | 1992-03-23 | 1996-10-08 | Karl-Heinrich Lemmerbrock | Process for disposal of asbestos or substances containing it |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP0348502B1 (en) | 1995-09-13 |
EP0348502A4 (en) | 1990-05-14 |
AU3850089A (en) | 1989-08-01 |
US4818143A (en) | 1989-04-04 |
EP0348502A1 (en) | 1990-01-03 |
DE68924203T2 (en) | 1996-05-15 |
ATE127714T1 (en) | 1995-09-15 |
DE68924203D1 (en) | 1995-10-19 |
JPH04503182A (en) | 1992-06-11 |
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