Thermogravimetric investigation ofwastes from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE)

AbstractTwo components of electronic wastes (sample A – a mixture of three types of printed circuit boards, sample B – a mixture of electronic junctions with metal wires) were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TG). Thermogravimetric and derivative thermogravimetric data (TG and DTG) give information on the thermal stability of A and B samples and allows finding the correct conditions for their degradation using pyrolysis in an experimental system, built on the laboratory scale for utilization of hazardous wastes. X-ray fluorescence measurements prove that brominated flame retardant is present in sample A, whilst chlorinated flame retardant is a probable component of sample B. Preliminary liquid chromatography of oil products obtained as a result of thermal waste degradation shows that the hydrocarbons released during pyrolysis could be used as a fuel.