Abstract: A method and apparatus for top-charging a solid waste into a molten metal bath to form a dissociation product are disclosed. The method includes introducing the waste into the molten metal bath through a refractory tube disposed in a reactor, containing the molten metal bath, through which the refractory tube extends. A gas outlet is disposed above the molten metal bath. The refractory tube has a submergible end which is immersed in the molten metal bath and which defines a lower opening at the terminal end of the refractory tube and an elevated opening, whereby a portion of the molten metal bath enters the refractory tube through the lower opening to allow the molten metal bath to remain within the refractory tube while at least partially dissociating the waste to form the dissociation product in the molten metal bath. An oxidizing agent can be directed into the molten metal bath at a rate sufficient to form an gaseous oxygenated product which is discharged from the reactor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for top-charging a solid waste into a molten metal bath to form a dissociation product are disclosed. The method includes introducing the waste into the molten metal bath through a refractory tube disposed in a reactor, containing the molten metal bath, through which the refractory tube extends. A gas outlet is disposed above the molten metal bath. The refractory tube has a submergible end which is immersed in the molten metal bath and which defines a lower opening at the terminal end of the refractory tube and an elevated opening, whereby a portion of the molten metal bath enters the refractory tube through the lower opening to allow the molten metal bath to remain within the refractory tube while at least partially dissociating the waste to form the dissociation product in the molten metal bath. An oxidizing agent can be directed into the molten metal bath at a rate sufficient to form an gaseous oxygenated product which is discharged from the reactor.