Leachate treatment using atmospheric plasma

The treatment of MSW landfill leachate remains a pressing global environmental challenge, largely due to its complex and variable composition that includes high concentrations of organic matter, ammonia, heavy metals, and emerging contaminants. While conventional treatment methods such as biological processes, physicochemical techniques, and membrane systems have been widely applied, they often struggle with issues like incomplete pollutant removal, high operational costs, and the production of secondary waste streams. In response to these challenges, researchers have been exploring a range of novel treatment approaches that offer more sustainable and effective solutions. This thesis presents a comprehensive review of emerging technologies for landfill leachate treatment, with a particular focus on plasma-based processes. Plasma treatment is gaining attention as an innovative and promising technique, primarily due to its ability to generate highly reactive species capable of breaking down even the most persistent pollutants. Unlike many traditional methods, plasma processes do not require the addition of chemicals and can potentially operate at lower energy costs, making them attractive from both an environmental and economic perspective. Throughout this work, the principles behind plasma technology, different system configurations, mechanisms of pollutant degradation, and current advancements are critically analyzed. Furthermore, the thesis discusses how plasma treatment compares to other advanced oxidation and electrochemical methods, highlighting its advantages, limitations, and potential pathways for future development. In doing so, this study aims to provide a clearer understanding of where plasma technology stands today and what role it could play in advancing sustainable leachate management in the years to come.