Abstract
PCBs are harmful substances. Thus, the completion of their treatment inside Japan is mandated by 2016. The purpose of this research was to formulate the reaction rate of detoxification of PCBs using the combination of microwaves and catalysts through the calculation of the rate constants in two cases: high PCB concentrations and low PCB concentrations. The rate constants for high PCB concentrations and low PCB concentrations are calculated by using the assumption that under microwave irradiation, the PCB decomposition reaction rate using catalysts is proportional to the first order of PCB concentration. Although, the sizes of lab scale and pilot scale reactors are different, the consistency of experimental data and calculation results from each experimental condition are comparatively good. Therefore, it is possible now to determine the appropriate operation conditions and reactor designs suitable for the amounts of PCBs that must be decomposed.
