Method and apparatus for disposal of organic wastes

Abstract

A method and apparatus for disposing of aqueous organic wastes by filtration and microwave irradiation. The aqueous organic waste is placed on a moving activated carbon filter bed, and during the bed movement, the liquid in the waste is substantially separated from the solid organic matter. In the course of separation, and during movement of bed, both the liquid and the organic solid matter are irradiated with microwaves and are thereby stabilized and sterilized. A portion of the sterilized organic solid residue is stored, and is subsequently converted to activated carbon to be used in the filter bed. The apparatus of the invention includes a rotary porous disc supported over a bed of activated carbon which is rotatable with the disc. A source of microwaves is positioned over one side of the disc for irradiating material on the disc and the activated carbon in the bed. A liquid collection device is positioned under the activated carbon bed for catching and storing liquid which has drained through the porous disc in the activated carbon bed after the liquid has been microwave irradiated. A solids removal device is positioned over the disc for removing sterilized solids therefrom and transferring them to a pyrolysis/incineration unit. Means is provided for irradiating the sterilized organic solid residue in the incineration unit to convert it to activated carbon, or to effect a reduction thereof to gases and a small ash residue.