The Safe Disposal of Polychlorinated Biphenyls

The degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB's) is reviewed in terms of the methods available and the reaction products generated. The origin of the PCB "problem" is discussed with reference to the toxic components of askarels. This paper is organized into two sections: 1) the disposal of askarel liquids and 2) the disposal of PCB contaminated liquid. The disposal of askarel liquids and the disposal of PCB contaminated liquid are discussed. 1) PCB's require a very large ener-gy input to cause decomposition and, therefore, the methods in use are typically large energy sources. The most widely used method of disposing of pure PCB's, and that preferred by the EPA, is high-temperature incineration. However, other methods discussed here include chemical methods and the use of a microwave plasma. 2) In the case of liquids which are contaminated by PCB's, the first two disposal choices involve either destruction by a combustion method or disposal in an chemical waste landfill. However, it is sometimes possible to reclaim the liquid for reuse. This paper discusses the numerous alternative chemical methods of PCB destruction as well as the physical separation of PCB's to yield uncontaminated liquids.