Rapid electrothermal upcycling hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD) polluted distillation residue into turbostratic graphene for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption

The trichloroethylene production industry generates high-boiling-point solid residues during rectification, which contain high concentrations of chlorinated contaminants, particularly hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD). Traditionally, these distillation residues are managed through co-incineration or landfilling, leading to environmental and economic challenges. In this study, we present a rapid and environmentally friendly electrothermal approach for both detoxifying and upcycling distillation residue into graphene-based electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials. By employing a DC power pulse discharge with a 10 s duration, we achieved over 99 % HCBD degradation efficiency. Characterization results indicate that the thermal shock transforms the distillation residue into high-value turbostratic pulse graphene (tPG). This tPG, featuring a unique structure, demonstrates substantial potential as an EMW absorber, with an effective absorption bandwidth of 3.9 GHz and a reflection loss of −42.0 dB at a minimal matching thickness of 1.6 mm. The method offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution for hazardous waste management, combining rapid processing with high-value material production.