In the context of which one of the following arcs the terms ‘pyrolysis and plasma gasification’ mentioned?
- Extraction of rare earth elements
- Natural gas extraction technologies
- Hydrogen fuel-based automobiles
- Waste-to-energy technologies
Explanation
Option (d) is correct
- The terms ‘pyrolysis and plasma gasification’ are associated with waste-to-energy technologies.
- Plasma gasification process: Plasma gasification is an extreme thermal process (uses a combination of electricity and high temperatures) using plasma (without combustion) that converts organic matter into syngas (synthesis gas — made up of hydrogen and carbon monoxide). The inorganic wastes are converted into slag, a solid waste. Plasma gasification is a cleaner alternative to landfilling, reducing or eliminating toxicity while avoiding the disposal of large volumes of waste.
- Pyrolysis process: Pyrolysis is a process of combustion (burning) of material in the absence of oxygen or under a controlled atmosphere of oxygen. It is an alternative to incineration. Pyrolysis of carbonaceous wastes like firewood, coconut, palm waste, corn combs, cashew shells, rice husk, paddy straw and sawdust yields charcoal and products like tar, methyl alcohol, acetic acid, acetone and fuel gas.
