Dataset of "Valorization of Refuse-Derived Fuel into Carbon Nanomaterials via Thermal Plasma Treatment using CO₂ as Gasifying Agent: A Multi-Technique Study"

The effective conversion of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) into functional, carbon-rich materials is a promising approach to sustainable waste management. Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) was processed using CO2 as the gasifying agent in a laboratory-scale thermal plasma gasification reactor at the Institute of Plasma Physics of Czech Academy of Sciences (IPP CAS). Plasma torch used was the self-developed H₂O/Ar-stabilized DC arc plasma torch. While the primary focus in previous study was syngas production and analysis, the present study investigates the properties of the resulting solid residues (CSRs) and potential for valorization. A comprehensive multi-scale characterisation was conducted using a range of analytical techniques, including XRD, XPS, ICP-OES, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM–EDX, TEM, STA, BET–DFT porosimetry and XRF. The plasma process significantly altered the chemical and structural properties of the RDF. While the original material sample (RDF) exhibited a high organic fraction and complex thermal decomposition behaviour, the resulting carbonaceous solid residue (CSR) was more thermally stable and carbon-enriched with lower volatile content. Spectroscopic analyses revealed the loss of oxygenated and halogenated groups, as well as the formation of disordered carbon phases. Elemental analysis confirmed the retention of key inorganic elements and heavy metals, while also highlighting elevated levels of chlorine and bromine, which are indicative of halogenated plastics and flame retardants. These findings demonstrate the potential of thermal plasma processing for the controlled transformation of RDF into carbon–mineral composites with tailored surface chemistry and thermal stability. CSR materials could be used in catalysis and energy storage or as additives in construction and environmental remediation, although further refinement and risk mitigation may be required to address the halogen and metal content.