TCCT utilises a thermochemical conversion process, which includes size reduction of wastes, application of fluxing solution to the waste and heating of the waste to produce an inert, non-hazardous end (treated) product.

In the TCCT process, asbestos waste is processed first via a slow-speed, rip-shear shredding system where the material is broken down to a uniform particle size.

From the shredding system, the material is fed via a conveyor system to a rotary hearth.

Before entering the rotary hearth, a fluxing solution is introduced into the asbestos waste stream. This fluxing solution uses sodium borate, commonly known as borax, a product used domestically as a multipurpose household cleaner, stain remover and deodoriser.

The rotary hearth is a continuous feed furnace with a variable residence time. Asbestos waste is heated to a temperature of approximately 1230°C (2250°F) during hearth rotation.

In EnviroMaster’s TCCT process, plastic waste is used as fuel to supplement furnace energy requirements (note, alternative fuel sources may be suitable where plastic is not appropriate in specific markets). Most non-chlorinated plastics contain energy equivalent to that of diesel fuel. The high energy density of plastics means that as little as 7% plastic to asbestos waste is sufficient to supply substantially all of the thermal energy requirements for the TCCT process.

Asbestos destruction efficiency of 100% is achieved in 20 minutes of processing.

The output of the furnace (the end treated product) is a non-hazardous, inert aggregate which can be used in many non-structural construction applications.

Independent testing of the end treated product highlighted potential civil engineering applications including earth and embankment fills, aggregate for road base, granular drains and filters, and aggregate for weaker concrete and flowable fills.

Off-gases of the TCCT process are routed through a secondary thermal oxidizer, a venturi, then three packed bed scrubbers installed in series, a demister, reheater, and bag house before being discharged via a stack. This pollution abatement system ensures the facility will not discharge any asbestos fibres and will meet and/or surpass all relevant and appropriate regulatory requirements.

For more information on EnviroMaster’s TCCT process, download our Concept Facility Process Map.