SCWO
Supercritical Water Oxidation (SCWO) is a thermochemical process that uses water above its critical point as a solvent and reaction medium to oxidize organic wastes into carbon dioxide, water, and inorganic salts. In the supercritical state, water has altered solvent properties that enable rapid, complete oxidation at relatively short residence times.
Operationally, SCWO requires temperatures typically around 400–650°C and pressures of 25–30 MPa (roughly 250–300 bar). The
Advantages include high destruction efficiency for a broad range of organics, including some chlorinated compounds, and
Applications span hazardous waste treatment, chemical manufacturing effluents, and certain wastewater streams containing refractory organics. Commercial
History and development notes that SCWO research began in the late 20th century, with pilot facilities built