Abstract:
A method for disposal of refuse by degasifying and gasification thereof in a retort having gas exhaustion near its outlet end, and in which the refuse is heated to such a degree that within the retort a gasification zone is maintained with a temperature of not below 900*C, by which new method a substantial part of the heat required for heating the refuse within the retort is obtained by means of steam superheated to a temperature of above 900*C, preferably above 1200*C, which steam is introduced into the retort. Preferably the steam or a part thereof is conducted through the retort co-current with the refuse, but most conveniently a part of the superheated steam is introduced into the retort between the refuse inlet and the gasification zone. Also it is recommended that the refuse is preheated to a temperature of 500* to 700*C before being influenced by the superheated steam. In many cases it may be appropriate that also at least a part of the retort wall is directly heated. Most advantageously a retort of the type corresponding to a rotary kiln is used.