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Pyrolysis, the chemical cracking of organic materials such as polymeric materials represents an innovative technology to recover resources contained in automobile shredder residues (ASR). In this study the technical capabilities, economic viability and environmental impact of pyrolysis as applied to ASR has been investigated. Based upon data provided by pyrolysis equipment suppliers, the pyrolysis of ASR appears to be a viable option to deal with the growing quantities of this material currently being produced. However, the selection of the most appropriate pyrolysis technology is dependant upon local needs and requirements.

A software using the Finite Element Method for machine-soil system was developed with the following features: (1) an iterative increment algorithm for solving dynamic problems with material non-linearity; (2) five strategies for reducing program running time; (3) strategies to utilize the computer memory resources under DOS environment; (4) a complete macro-command system; and (5) an advanced element-library managing structure.

Field tests in sandy loam and clay soils were conducted with simple vertical tillage tools up to a speed of 18 ms-1 (65 km h-1) to determine the influence of soil types on the high-speed performance of tillage tools and the detailed relationship between draft and speed. A non-linear, dynamic finite element method (FEM) was used to simulate the variation in tool draft witii cutting speed. The prospects of high-speed tillage were discussed on tie basis of these experimental and analytical results.

Computational analysis of flow field inside a high pressure swirl injector is carried out. The effects of injection pressure and internal geometry on velocity field inside the nozzle and especially at the injector exit are studied in detail. From the velocity distribution at the exit plane, methods to determine the discharge coefficient and liquid sheet cone angle are given. To validate the computational model, the spray cone angles in the immediate vicinity of the nozzle exit were measured from photographs over the injection pressure differential range of 3.5 to 10.3 MPa. Static flow rates were measured using a flow meter over the same pressure range. The calculated results are found to be consistent with the experimental measurements. Extensive calculations were then conducted to examine the influence of swirl inlet port area and orifice diameter on discharge coefficient and spray cone angle.