1
|
Ferronato N, Giaquinta C, Conti F, Torretta V. When solid recovered fuel (SRF) production and consumption maximize environmental benefits? A life cycle assessment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2024; 178:199-209. [PMID: 38402740 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2024.02.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Solid recovered fuel (SRF) from non-recyclable waste obtained from source separation and mechanical treatments can replace carbon coke in cement plants, contributing to the carbon neutrality. A life cycle assessment (LCA) of the SRF production from non-recyclable and selected waste was conducted in an Italian mechanical treatment plant to estimate the potential environmental impacts per ton of SRF produced. The analysis would contribute to evaluate the benefits that can be obtained due to coke substitution in best- and worst-case scenarios. The avoided impacts achieved were assessed, together with an evaluation of the variables that can affect the environmental benefits: SRF biogenic carbon content (in percentage of paper and cardboard); transportation distances travelled from the treatment plant to the cement kiln; the renewable energy used in the mechanical facility. On average, about 35.6 kgCO2-eq are generated by the SRF transportation and production phase. These impacts are greatly compensated by coke substitution, obtaining a net value of about -1.1 tCO2-eq avoided per ton of SRF. On balance, the global warming potential due to SRF production and consumption ranges from about -542 kgCO2-eq to about -1729 kgCO2-eq. The research recommended the use of SRF to substitute coke in cement kilns also in low densely-populated areas to mitigate environmental impacts and achieve carbon neutrality at a global level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navarro Ferronato
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy.
| | - Chiara Giaquinta
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Fabio Conti
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Torretta
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cueto J, Pérez-Martin G, Amodio L, Paniagua M, Morales G, Melero JA, Serrano DP. Upgrading of solid recovered fuel (SRF) by dechlorination and catalytic pyrolysis over nanocrystalline ZSM-5 zeolite. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 339:139784. [PMID: 37567278 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Globally increasing concern related to municipal solid waste generation is encouraging research efforts on developing alternative routes to valorize mixed refused wastes. In this way, catalytic pyrolysis is emerging as an interesting and efficient technology due to its great flexibility in terms of feedstock. In the current work, upgrading of a Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) has been investigated by catalytic pyrolysis over nanocrystalline ZSM-5 zeolite (n-ZSM-5), paying special attention to dechlorination effects due to the high Cl content of the raw waste. Thus, pretreatment of the SRF by water washing and mild thermal processing allows for a significant reduction of the Cl concentration. Regarding the catalytic pyrolysis step, the best conditions correspond with a temperature of 400 °C in the catalyst bed and 0.50 catalyst/SRF mass ratio, which lead to ca. 30 wt% oil yield (rich in aromatic hydrocarbons) together with about 40 wt% gas yield (rich in C3-C4 olefins). Accordingly, these products could find use as raw chemicals or for the production of advanced fuels. In addition, zeolite reutilization has been tested for several cycles, denoting a progressive modification of the products distribution because of coke deposition. However, an almost total recovery of the n-ZSM-5 zeolite catalytic performance is achieved after regeneration by air calcination, affording the production of an oil fraction with a Cl content as low as 40 ppm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Cueto
- Thermochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de La Sagra, 3, 28935, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Pérez-Martin
- Thermochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de La Sagra, 3, 28935, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Amodio
- Thermochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de La Sagra, 3, 28935, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain; Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Paniagua
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - G Morales
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - J A Melero
- Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain
| | - D P Serrano
- Thermochemical Processes Unit, IMDEA Energy Institute, Avda. Ramón de La Sagra, 3, 28935, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain; Chemical and Environmental Engineering Group, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ahn KH, Shin DC, Lee YE, Jeong Y, Jung J, Kim IT. Biochar Production and Demineralization Characteristics of Food Waste for Fuel Conversion. Molecules 2023; 28:6114. [PMID: 37630366 PMCID: PMC10457951 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The pyrolysis of food waste has high economic potential and produces several value-added products, such as gas, bio-oil, and biochar. In South Korea, biochar production from food waste is prohibited, because dioxins are generated during combustion caused by the chloride ions arising from the high salt content. This study is the first to examine the water quality and the applicability of food waste-based biochar as solid refuse fuel (SRF) based on a demineralization process. The calorific value increased after demineralization due to the removal of ionic substances and the high carbon content. The chloride ion removal rate after demineralization increased with the increasing pyrolysis temperature. A proximate analysis of biochar indicated that the volatile matter decreased, while ash and fixed carbon increased, with increasing pyrolysis temperature. At 300 °C pyrolysis temperature, all domestic bio-SRF standards were met. The organic matter concentration in water decreased with increasing carbonization temperature, and the concentrations of soluble harmful substances, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), were within the standards or non-detectable. These results suggest that biochar can be efficiently generated from food waste while meeting the emission standards for chloride ions, dissolved VOCs, ash, and carbon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang-Ho Ahn
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 283 Goyang-daero, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10223, Republic of Korea; (K.-H.A.); (Y.-E.L.); (Y.J.); (J.J.)
| | - Dong-Chul Shin
- Department of Smart Construction and Environmental Engineering, Daejin University, 1007 Hoguk-ro, Pocheon-si 11159, Republic of Korea;
| | - Ye-Eun Lee
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 283 Goyang-daero, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10223, Republic of Korea; (K.-H.A.); (Y.-E.L.); (Y.J.); (J.J.)
| | - Yoonah Jeong
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 283 Goyang-daero, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10223, Republic of Korea; (K.-H.A.); (Y.-E.L.); (Y.J.); (J.J.)
| | - Jinhong Jung
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 283 Goyang-daero, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10223, Republic of Korea; (K.-H.A.); (Y.-E.L.); (Y.J.); (J.J.)
| | - I-Tae Kim
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 283 Goyang-daero, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si 10223, Republic of Korea; (K.-H.A.); (Y.-E.L.); (Y.J.); (J.J.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Di Vaio A, Hasan S, Palladino R, Hassan R. The transition towards circular economy and waste within accounting and accountability models: a systematic literature review and conceptual framework. ENVIRONMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY 2023; 25:734-810. [PMID: 35035274 PMCID: PMC8740869 DOI: 10.1007/s10668-021-02078-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
A transition towards a circular economy is a challenge. It is vital to know that circularity and sustainability are two different segments. So, circular economy can only be achieved in the long-term perspective. This study investigates accounting and accountability for circular economy and waste. Considering these principles and based on a critical review of the literature, economic gains from the transition toward a circular economy are measurable; the problems for corporations and governments are diverse; the way to handle the stakeholders who are losing control in the circular economy is considerable. Diffusion of innovation theory is used to conduct this study. It is essential that an organisational design built should help implement the circular model. Targeted questions responded by adopting a systematic literature review approach by applying PRISMA protocol. This study examines 78 publications in English between 2012 and 2021, which present a map of the circular economy-related knowledge published in web of science and Scopus. Besides, this study includes 03 European Commission reports, 01 Ellen Macarthur Foundation report, 01 Council for the Environment and Infrastructure report, 01 report from SUN IZA, 01 UN Global Compact and 01 the Brundtland Commission report. The results highlight how circular economy, waste management, sustainability, accountability, and management accounting practices help to develop an ecosystem and achieve sustainable development goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Assunta Di Vaio
- Department of Law, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via G. Parisi, No. 13, 80132 Naples, Italy
| | - Sohail Hasan
- Department of Law, University of Naples “Parthenope”, Via G. Parisi, No. 13, 80132 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosa Palladino
- Department of Economics, Quantitative Methods and Business Strategies, University of Milano “Bicocca”, Piazza dell’Ateneo Nuovo, No. 1, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Rohail Hassan
- Othman Yeop Abdullah Graduate School of Business (OYAGSB), Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), 50300 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cook E, Velis CA, Cottom JW. Scaling up resource recovery of plastics in the emergent circular economy to prevent plastic pollution: Assessment of risks to health and safety in the Global South. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2022; 40:1680-1707. [PMID: 35875954 PMCID: PMC9606178 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x221105415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Over the coming decades, a large additional mass of plastic waste will become available for recycling, as efforts increase to reduce plastic pollution and facilitate a circular economy. New infrastructure will need to be developed, yet the processes and systems chosen should not result in adverse effects on human health and the environment. Here, we present a rapid review and critical semi-quantitative assessment of the potential risks posed by eight approaches to recovering value during the resource recovery phase from post-consumer plastic packaging waste collected and separated with the purported intention of recycling. The focus is on the Global South, where there are more chances that high risk processes could be run below standards of safe operation. Results indicate that under non-idealised operational conditions, mechanical reprocessing is the least impactful on the environment and therefore most appropriate for implementation in developing countries. Processes known as 'chemical recycling' are hard to assess due to lack of real-world process data. Given their lack of maturity and potential for risk to human health and the environment (handling of potentially hazardous substances under pressure and heat), it is unlikely they will make a useful addition to the circular economy in the Global South in the near future. Inevitably, increasing circular economy activity will require expansion towards targeting flexible, multi-material and multilayer products, for which mechanical recycling has well-established limitations. Our comparative risk overview indicates major barriers to changing resource recovery mode from the already dominant mechanical recycling mode towards other nascent or energetic recovery approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Costas A Velis
- Costas A Velis, Room 304, School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Woodhouse Lane, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen YC, Tsai YC. Dry dechlorination of solid-derived fuels obtained from food waste and polyvinyl chloride. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 841:156745. [PMID: 35716746 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Solid-recovered fuels (SRFs) with low chlorine (Cl) contents are urgently needed, particularly considering the limited availability of energy resources globally. Two main sources of chlorinated pollution in municipal solid wastes, namely food waste and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), were used as raw materials for SRF production. These materials were dechlorinated using alkaline adsorbents (calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)), yielding five sample SRFs. The SRFs had low heating values (LHVs) of 14.10-15.12 MJ/kg. The alkaline adsorbents were introduced during dry dechlorination, which increased the LHVs by 8.4 MJ/g. Approximately 50 % of the total Cl content was transformed into the liquid and gaseous phases after incineration of the SRF. The PVC content was increased to increase the amount of gaseous Cl produced. Conversely, the yields of liquid and solid Cl increased when the FW content was increased. Among alkaline adsorbents, Ca(OH)2 exhibited better adsorption performance than NaHCO3. Upon mixing ~15 wt% of Ca(OH)2 with the SRFs, the highest Cl removal efficiency (77 %) in the gaseous phase was achieved. Over 90 % of the total Cl content was converted into solid-phase calcium chloride and sodium chloride by the alkaline adsorbents. The total cost of the SRF was US$85.48/t, of which labor and electricity costs accounted for 50 % and 25 %, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Chu Chen
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei City 106, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Chen Tsai
- Master of Science, Institute of Environmental Engineering and Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei City 106, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Szydełko A, Ferens W, Rybak W. Effects of calcium, sodium and potassium on ash fusion temperatures of solid recovered fuels (SRF). WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 150:161-173. [PMID: 35839751 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Various types of solid recovered fuels (SRFs) were investigated, then the waste was chemically leached and co-fired with coal and sewage sludge. Ashes with different properties and oxide compositions were used to explain the influence of various ash components (mainly sodium, potassium and calcium) on the Ash Fusion Temperatures (AFTs). Oxide compositions and empirical indices were determined and the effect of these data on the measured AFTs was investigated. An attempt to explain the effects of specific oxides on SRF melting temperatures using FactSage thermodynamic equilibrium software is presented. Thermodynamic equilibrium calculations are also used to predict the onset temperature of the molten phase, the percentage of molten phase at different combustion temperatures, and the possible solid phases that may exist at different temperatures. The mechanism of transformation of the inorganic substance of SRF turned out to be more complex than that of the mineral substance of coal, which resulted from the variable composition of the SRF. The character of temperature changes of the studied wastes after leaching in water and acetic acid in most cases is similar to the courses determined experimentally. For all investigated ashes from obtained the leaching of SRF wastes, the melting temperature decreases with the applied leaching. Potassium and sodium are the key elements causig the formation of low-melting silicates. Depending on the type of waste and leaching agent the lower the value of the B/A and α indices and the CaO content in ash, the lower the shrinkage temperature of the ash.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiusz Szydełko
- Department of Energy Technologies, Turbines and Modeling of Heat-Flow Processes, Wrocław University of Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-372 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Wiesław Ferens
- Department of Energy Technologies, Turbines and Modeling of Heat-Flow Processes, Wrocław University of Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-372 Wrocław, Poland
| | - Wiesław Rybak
- Department of Energy Technologies, Turbines and Modeling of Heat-Flow Processes, Wrocław University of Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-372 Wrocław, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ferronato N, Calle Mendoza IJ, Marconi Siñani NG, Gorritty Portillo MA, Torretta V. Perspectives in solid recovered fuel production in Bolivia: Analysis of characteristics and potential benefits. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 144:324-335. [PMID: 35429870 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2022.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Solid recovered fuels (SRF) can provide another treatment option to the solid waste management (SWM) sector. However, in developing countries, to date, this system approach has not found considerable application. In Bolivia, SRF is not deemed within the national regulation and the final disposal in open dumping areas is still a reality. This research article provides the first attempt in evaluating the SRF characteristics and its potentialities in Bolivia, taking La Paz as a case study. Laboratory analysis of the rejects produced after selective collection and sorting has been conducted, focusing on non-hazardous and non-recyclable waste fractions. The international standards related to EN 15359:2011 for the classification of the SRF were employed, assessing the most feasible mix of materials to provide the highest classification of SRF in terms of low calorific value (LCV), chlorine, and mercury concentration. Results reported that the SRF made of 80% plastics (85% PE and 15% PP) and 20% cellulosic (blend 2), as well as 30% plastics (50% PP and 50% PE) and 70% cellulosic (blend 1), can be considered an alternative fuel in Bolivia. On balance, it has been estimated that the use of non-recyclable plastics and cardboard from municipal solid waste can provide, on average, about 0.9-2.7 billion MJ of energy for cement kilns, solving about 1.4-5.3% of the SWM issues and covering about 8-23.4% of the energy demand for cement production in Bolivia. These results are novel for the scientific literature for estimating the potentialities of SRF in Latin America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navarro Ferronato
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy.
| | | | | | | | - Vincenzo Torretta
- University of Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences (DiSTA), Via G.B. Vico 46, I-21100 Varese, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Cooper JA, Drijber RA, Malakar A, Jin VL, Miller DN, Kaiser M. Evaluating coal char as an alternative to biochar for mitigating nutrient and carbon loss from manure-amended soils: Insights from a greenhouse experiment. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY 2022; 51:272-287. [PMID: 35045194 DOI: 10.1002/jeq2.20327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Animal manure has been increasingly adopted as a more sustainable substitute for synthetic fertilizers but might result in increased dissolved organic C (DOC) and phosphate (PO4 3- ) leaching and elevated greenhouse gas emissions from soil. Biochar may reduce nutrient loss from manure-amended soils, but large-scale application has been hindered, in part, by its high cost. Minimum cost alternatives, such as incomplete coal combustion residue (char), may provide a more viable option to farmers, but char needs to be analyzed in comparison to high-temperature pine biochar before recommendations can be made. We valuated losses of soil C, N, and P, as well as plant yields and changes in microbial biomass, in two contrasting soils amended with dairy slurry or swine lagoon wastewater and with biochar or coal char over 105 d. Dissolved organic C leaching decreased with addition of biochar or char (0.6-27% or 1.6-36%), independent of soil texture and manure type. Leaching of PO4 3- was reduced by biochar (15-24%) and char (38-50%) in the silt loam. Soil N leaching increased after char application (likely due to our high application rate) but was unaffected by biochar. Char reduced CO2 emissions from the sandy loam by 9.7-54%, whereas both biochar and char increased CO2 emissions in the silt loam by 38-48% during plant root senescence. Depending on soil characteristics, char may outcompete biochar with respect to reduction of PO4 3- and DOC leaching. Unlike biochar, some char-N is available, and this should be accounted for when considering application rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Cooper
- Dep. of Agronomy & Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1875 N 38th St, 279 Plant Sciences Hall, PO Box 830915, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0915, USA
| | - Rhae A Drijber
- Dep. of Agronomy & Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1875 N 38th St, 279 Plant Sciences Hall, PO Box 830915, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0915, USA
| | - Arindam Malakar
- Nebraska Water Center, part of the Robert B. Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute, 109 Water Sciences Laboratory, Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0844, USA
| | - Virginia L Jin
- USDA-ARS, Agroecosystem Management Research Unit, 251 Filley Hall, East Campus, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0937, USA
| | - Daniel N Miller
- USDA-ARS, Agroecosystem Management Research Unit, 251 Filley Hall, East Campus, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0937, USA
| | - Michael Kaiser
- Dep. of Agronomy & Horticulture, Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln, 1875 N 38th St, 279 Plant Sciences Hall, PO Box 830915, Lincoln, NE, 68583-0915, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Physicochemical Properties of Torrefied and Pyrolyzed Food Waste Biochars as Fuel: A Pilot-Scale Study. ENERGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/en15010333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Food waste is an important constituent of municipal solid waste, and research has been conducted to develop various methods for treating food waste and recycling it (e.g., fuel, landfilling, composting, conversion into animal feed, drying, and carbonization). Among these, the drying and carbonization techniques can change food waste into fuel; however, they need more energy than fermentation and anaerobic digestion procedures. In this study, we investigated the physicochemical properties of food waste biochar produced under torrefaction (270 °C) and pyrolysis (450 °C) conditions to establish its applicability as fuel by comparing temperatures, residence times, and conditions before and after demineralization. The higher heating value increased after the demineralization process under both temperature conditions (270 °C and 450 °C), and the chlorine level was lower at 270 °C temperature demineralization than at 450 °C. During the demineralization process, Na and K were better removed than Ca and Mg. Additionally, Cr, Hg, Cd, and Pb levels were lower than those according to the European Union and Korean domestic bio-SRF recovered fuel criteria, confirming the applicability of biochar as fuel.
Collapse
|
11
|
Lee YE, Jeong Y, Shin DC, Yoo YS, Ahn KH, Jung J, Kim IT. Effects of demineralization on food waste biochar for co-firing: Behaviors of alkali and alkaline earth metals and chlorine. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 137:190-199. [PMID: 34794037 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2021.10.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A significant amount of chlorine, and alkali and alkaline earth metal (AAEM) in food waste has been a major limitation to the utilization of food waste as fuel. The present study aims to investigate the behavior of chlorine and AAEM in food waste biochar during pyrolysis, demineralization, and combustion. Food waste compost (FWC) and food waste feedstock (FWF) were selected as raw materials. Three different pyrolysis temperatures from 300 to 500 °C and two demineralization processes, water and CO2-saturated water, were employed. As the pyrolysis temperature increased, crystallized salt was removed through demineralization, which further increased the heating value. Effective removal of chlorine was demonstrated in both demineralization methods. During demineralization, re-adsorption of Ca on food waste biochar occurred, which was alleviated by CO2-water demineralization. The total amounts of volatilized Cl and AAEM after CO2-water demineralization were reduced by 74.79-99.38% for FWF and 98.34-99.9% for FWC compared to raw biochar. Furthermore, slagging and fouling potentials for all food waste biochar samples were estimated using various indices. The proposed behavior of Cl and AAEM in food waste biochar during various fabrication conditions provides insight into how food waste biochar can be applied in thermos-electric power plant for co-firing with coal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Eun Lee
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonah Jeong
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong-Chul Shin
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeong-Seok Yoo
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwang-Ho Ahn
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Jinhong Jung
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - I-Tae Kim
- Department of Environmental Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang- daero 283, Ilsanseo-gu Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Conventional and Alternative Sources of Thermal Energy in the Production of Cement—An Impact on CO2 Emission. ENERGIES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/en14061539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The article evaluates the reduction of carbon dioxide emission due to the partial substitution of coal with alternative fuels in clinker manufacture. For this purpose, the calculations were performed for seventy waste-derived samples of alternative fuels with variable calorific value and variable share in the fuel mixture. Based on annual clinker production data of the Polish Cement Association and the laboratory analysis of fuels, it was estimated that the direct net CO2 emissions from fossil fuel combustion alone were 543 Mg of CO2 per hour. By contrast with the full substitution of coal with alternative fuels (including 30% of biomass), the emission ranged from 302 up to 438 Mg of CO2 per hour, depending on fuel properties. A reduction of 70% in the share of fossil fuels resulted in about a 23% decrease in net emissions. It was proved that the increased use of alternative fuels as an additive to the fuel mix is also of economic importance. It was determined that thanks to the combustion of 70% of alternative fuels of calorific value from 15 to 26 MJ/kg, the hourly financial profit gain due to avoided CO2 emission and saved 136 megatons of coal totaled an average of 9718 euros. The results confirmed that the co-incineration of waste in cement kilns can be an effective, long-term way to mitigate carbon emissions and to lower clinker production costs. This paper may constitute a starting point for future research activities and specific case studies in terms of reducing CO2 emissions.
Collapse
|
13
|
Wasielewski R, Głód K, Lasek J. Industrial tests of co-combustion of alternative fuel with hard coal in a stoker boiler. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2021; 71:339-347. [PMID: 33074780 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2020.1826007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper presents the results of industrial research on co-combustion of solid recovered fuel (SRF) with hard coal in a stoker boiler type WR-25. The share of SRF in the fuel mixture was 10%. During the co-combustion of SRF, no technological disturbances of the boiler were noted. The obtained SO2 and NOX emissions were comparable with coal combustion, but dust emissions increased. During the co-combustion of the coal mixture with 10% of alternative fuel, acceptable standards for co-incineration of waste were exceeded for NOx, dust, CO, HCl, HF, heavy metals, dioxins, and furans. The by-products of waste co-combustion with coal were non-hazardous waste. The obtained results constitute a very important contribution to the process of boiler retrofitting toward a waste co-incineration unit, and to meeting the legislative and environmental requirements.Implications: Due to some challenges related to waste storage and transportation, combustion in incineration plants and Waste-to-Energy plants is not possible. The adaptation (formal and technical) of medium scale boilers as co-incineration plants reveals high potential. Nevertheless, the lack of experience and investigations of waste co-combustion in real industrial scale grate boilers is observed. Thus, the implication of this article results consists of the investigations using industrial scale mechanical grate boiler (different from incineration type). Moreover, the investigations were carried out in a low-capacity boiler (~50% of nominal capacity). This novel experience is very important because reduced heat dissipation into the grid caused by high ambient temperatures occurs very frequently. These tests are valuable from the point of view of retrofitting the unit to obtain technological and emission parameters that would allow obtaining the status of a waste co-incinerating unit. The results of these investigations are addressed to power plant management board and engineering staff.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Krzysztof Głód
- Institute for Chemical Processing of Coal, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Janusz Lasek
- Institute for Chemical Processing of Coal, Zabrze, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Demineralization of Food Waste Biochar for Effective Alleviation of Alkali and Alkali Earth Metal Species. Processes (Basel) 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9010047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Ash-related issues from a considerable amount of alkali and alkaline earth metal species in biochar are major obstacles to the widespread application of biomass in thermoelectric plants. In this study, food wastes were converted into biochar through pyrolysis at 450 °C or 500 °C and four different demineralization approaches, using deionized water, citric acid, nitric acid, and CO2 saturated water. The chemical properties of the resulting biochars were investigated, including proximate analysis, concentrations of inorganic species in biochar and ash, and the crystalline structure. All demineralization treatments produced food waste biochar with sufficient calorific value (>4000 kcal/kg) and a chlorine concentration <0.5%. Among the inorganic species in biochar, Na and K exhibited a significantly higher removal rate through demineralization, which ranged from 54.1%–85.6% and 53.6%–89.9%, respectively; the removal rates of Ca and Mg were lower than 50.0%. The demineralization method was more critical than the pyrolysis temperature in the removal of alkali and alkaline earth metals. Especially, the lower slagging and fouling tendency was expected for the biochar demineralized with citric acid. Our results suggested that food waste biochar pyrolyzed at 500 °C and demineralized with citric acid is a promising co-firing material for electric power generation in thermoelectric power plants.
Collapse
|
15
|
Characterization of Sewage Sludge and Food Waste-Based Biochar for Co-Firing in a Coal-Fired Power Plant: A Case Study in Korea. SUSTAINABILITY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/su12229411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Biomass co-firing in coal-fired power plants has been widely accepted to reduce the environmental burden. In this study, food waste (FW) and sewage sludge (SS), which are the main types of municipal organic waste, were selected as solid refuse fuel (SRF). To compensate for the limitations of FW and SS, a mixture of FW and SS with varying ratios was processed using pyrolysis and desalination. The fuel properties such as the calorific value, chlorine content, alkali and alkaline earth metallic species (AAEMs) content, and heavy metal content were determined. The calorific values of all biochars were greater than 12.6 MJ/kg, which satisfies the national threshold of Bio-SRF in Korea. Chlorine and AAEMs contents exhibited clear trends for the FW ratio and pyrolysis temperature. Increasing concentrations of heavy metals were observed with increasing SS ratio and pyrolysis temperature. These results provide important insights into the practical application of municipal waste-based biochar in coal-fired plants, as well as the influence of mixing ratio and pyrolysis temperature.
Collapse
|
16
|
Gerassimidou S, Velis CA, Williams PT, Komilis D. Characterisation and composition identification of waste-derived fuels obtained from municipal solid waste using thermogravimetry: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2020; 38:942-965. [PMID: 32705957 PMCID: PMC7498913 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x20941085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) is the most widespread thermal analytical technique applied to waste materials. By way of critical review, we establish a theoretical framework for the use of TGA under non-isothermal conditions for compositional analysis of waste-derived fuels from municipal solid waste (MSW) (solid recovered fuel (SRF), or refuse-derived fuel (RDF)). Thermal behaviour of SRF/RDF is described as a complex mixture of several components at multiple levels (including an assembly of prevalent waste items, materials, and chemical compounds); and, operating conditions applied to TGA experiments of SRF/RDF are summarised. SRF/RDF mainly contains cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate. Polyvinyl chloride is also used in simulated samples, for its high chlorine content. We discuss the main limitations for TGA-based compositional analysis of SRF/RDF, due to inherently heterogeneous composition of MSW at multiple levels, overlapping degradation areas, and potential interaction effects among waste components and cross-contamination. Optimal generic TGA settings are highlighted (inert atmosphere and low heating rate (⩽10°C), sufficient temperature range for material degradation (⩾750°C), and representative amount of test portion). There is high potential to develop TGA-based composition identification and wider quality assurance and control methods using advanced thermo-analytical techniques (e.g. TGA with evolved gas analysis), coupled with statistical data analytics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Costas A Velis
- School of Civil Engineering,
University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Paul T Williams
- School of Chemical and Process
Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Dimitrios Komilis
- Department of Environmental
Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gerassimidou S, Velis CA, Komilis D. Establishing a sub-sampling plan for waste-derived solid recovered fuels (SRF): Effects of shredding on representative sample preparation based on theory of sampling (ToS). WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 113:430-438. [PMID: 32610247 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The uncertainty arising from laboratory sampling (sub-sampling) can compromise the accuracy of analytical results in highly inherent heterogeneous materials, such as solid waste. Here, we aim at advancing our fundamental understanding on the possibility for relatively unbiased, yet affordable and practicable sub-sampling, benefiting from state of the art equipment, theoretical calculations by the theory of sampling (ToS) and implementation of best sub-sampling practices. Solid recovered fuel (SRF) was selected as a case of a solid waste sample with intermediate heterogeneity and chlorine (Cl) as an analyte with intermediate variability amongst waste properties. ToS nomographs were constructed for different sample preparation scenarios presenting the trend of uncertainty during sub-sampling. Nomographs showed that primary shredding (final d90 ≤ 0.4 cm) can reduce the uncertainty 11 times compared to an unshredded final sub-sample (d ≈ 3 cm), whereas cryogenic shredding in the final sub-sample can decrease the uncertainty more than three times compared to primary shredding (final d90 ≤ 0.015 cm). Practices that can introduce bias during sub-sampling, such as mass loss, moisture loss and insufficient Cl recovery were negligible. Experimental results indicated a substantial possibility to obtain a representative final sub-sample (uncertainty ≤ 15%) with the established sub-sampling plan (57-93%, with 95% confidence), although this possibility can be considerably improved by drawing two final sub-samples instead (91-98%, with 95% confidence). The applicability of ToS formula in waste-derived materials has to be investigated: theoretical ToS calculations assume a poorer performance of the sub-sampling plan than evidenced by the experimental results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Costas A Velis
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
| | - Dimitrios Komilis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Colapicchioni V, Mosca S, Guerriero E, Cerasa M, Khalid A, Perilli M, Rotatori M. Environmental impact of co-combustion of polyethylene wastes in a rice husks fueled plant: Evaluation of organic micropollutants and PM emissions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 716:135354. [PMID: 31839322 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.135354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Co-combustion of biomass and plastic waste has emerged as one of the most promising approach at the plastic waste management challenge. This strategy is particularly attractive since it can simultaneously solve the increasing energy demand and reduce the plastic wastes volume. However, since the combustion of both plastic wastes and natural materials is a potential source of organic micropollutants, such as polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), beside particulate matter, the environmental sustainability of the waste to energy (WtE) co-combustion strategy has to be assessed. To this end, the emissions of dioxin like (dl)-PCBs, PCDD/Fs and PAHs from a 4-MW thermal power plant fueled with rice husk, partially replaced by end-of-life polyethylene (PE) industrial waste (up to 15% of the thermal power of the plant), were investigated. GC-MS/MS analyses have demonstrated that the co-combustion of PE waste and rice husk presents a profile of environmental sustainability. The concentrations of dl-PCBs, PCDD/Fs and PAHs were extremely low and they have remained almost unaffected by introducing PE in feed. In particular, emissions of PCCD/Fs and dl-PCBs in flue gas were in the range 0.6-1.0 and 0.2-0.6 pg TEQ/Nm3, respectively, while PAHs concentrations ranged from 410 to 825 ng/Nm3. Furthermore, the emission factors of these organic pollutants were found to be lower with PE increasing rate while particulate matter emissions were not affected by co-combustions. Collectively, the investigation has demonstrated that the noils of the industrial PE, due to the low content in halides and metals, can be used as auxiliary fuel and energetically recycled through co-combustion with rice husk. This case of study represents an effective application of the WtE strategy and a concrete approach to mitigate the threat of plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Colapicchioni
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| | - Silvia Mosca
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| | - Ettore Guerriero
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| | - Marina Cerasa
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| | - Asma Khalid
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Shamsabad, Muree Road Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Mattia Perilli
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| | - Mauro Rotatori
- Italian National Research Council - Institute for Atmospheric Pollution Research (CNR-IIA), Via Salaria km 29, 300 00015 Monterotondo (RM), Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gerassimidou S, Velis CA, Bourne RA, Komilis D, Garcia-Taengua E, Williams PT. Statistical quantification of sub-sampling representativeness and uncertainty for waste-derived solid recovered fuel (SRF): Comparison with theory of sampling (ToS). JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 388:122013. [PMID: 31954309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.122013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The level of uncertainty during quantification of hazardous elements/properties of waste-derived products is affected by sub-sampling. Understanding sources of variability in sub-sampling can lead to more accurate risk quantification and effective compliance statistics. Here, we investigate a sub-sampling scheme for the characterisation of solid recovered fuel (SRF) - an example of an inherently heterogeneous mixture containing hazardous properties. We used statistically designed experiments (DoE) (nested balanced ANOVA) to quantify uncertainty arising from material properties, sub-sampling plan and analysis. This was compared with the theoretically estimated uncertainty via theory of sampling (ToS). The sub-sampling scheme derives representative analytical results for relatively uniformly dispersed properties (moisture, ash, and calorific content: RSD ≤ 6.1 %). Much higher uncertainty was recorded for the less uniformly dispersed chlorine (Cl) (RSD: 18.2 %), but not considerably affecting SRF classification. The ToS formula overestimates the uncertainty from sub-sampling stages without shredding, possibly due to considering uncertainty being proportional to the cube of particle size (FE ∝ d3), which may not always apply e.g. for flat waste fragments. The relative contribution of sub-sampling stages to the overall uncertainty differs by property, contrary to what ToS stipulates. Therefore, the ToS approach needs adaptation for quantitative application in sub-sampling of waste-derived materials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Costas A Velis
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom.
| | - Richard A Bourne
- School of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Dimitrios Komilis
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi, Greece
| | | | - Paul T Williams
- School of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Szydełko A, Ferens W, Rybak W. The effect of mineral additives on the process of chlorine bonding during combustion and co-combustion of Solid Recovered Fuels. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 102:624-634. [PMID: 31785522 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2019.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The use of solid recovered fuels (SRF) is often associated with an increased risk of chloride corrosion because these fuels can be high in chlorine and alkali. One way to reduce the risk of chloride corrosion is the co-combustion of fuel mixtures in the presence of a mineral additive containing chemical compounds that bind the emitted chlorides. This paper concerns the influence of mineral additives - constituting waste material, on the process of the binding of emitted chlorides. One of these waste materials could be a halloysite, not yet used in power industry. The research has shown its high chloride binding effectiveness, comparable to that of kaolin (known in literature as a mineral additive effectively binding chloride). Moreover, the studies have shown that SRF combustion in the presence of stabilized, dried and granulated sewage sludge, with a 25% mass fraction of sewage sludge, allows reducing chloride emissions. Studies are based on tests in a calorimetric bomb.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiusz Szydełko
- Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Wrocław, 50-370, Poland.
| | - Wiesław Ferens
- Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Wrocław, 50-370, Poland
| | - Wiesław Rybak
- Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Mechanical and Power Engineering, Wrocław, 50-370, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Iacovidou E, Velenturf APM, Purnell P. Quality of resources: A typology for supporting transitions towards resource efficiency using the single-use plastic bottle as an example. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 647:441-448. [PMID: 30086496 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.07.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The growing British waste management sector has consistently voiced the need to improve the quality of waste streams and thus the value of secondary resources produced, in order to achieve higher reprocessing rates. Mismanagement of wastes that may lead to contamination and degradation of the recyclate feedstock constitutes one of the main barriers in the pathway to a circular economy. The sector has also repeatedly called upon manufacturers to collaborate in designing materials, components and products (MCPs) with properties that aid recovery, refurbishing, repair and recycling (e.g. separabilty of materials, clear labelling), as waste managers recognise the value of early engagement well before MCPs enter the supply chain (i.e. before MCPs are produced and distributed to the end user). Nonetheless, progress has been slow with regard to improved design for promoting components and products longevity and segregation at source when they reach their end-of-use or end-of-life stage in order to promote circularity. China's ban on imports of low quality recyclates at the end of 2017 marked the beginning of a new era in waste management. It drew attention to UK's dependence on export of low-value secondary resources, placing 'quality' in the spotlight. This article delves into the notion of quality; how quality is understood and assessed at different parts of the MCPs lifecycle, and how it might be systematically measured. A typology to distinguish avoidable and unavoidable designed and created characteristics at all stages of MCPs lifecycle is proposed to provide industry with a tool to design wastes out of the economy. The typology's application is demonstrated using the single-use plastic bottles as an example.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Iacovidou
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
| | | | - Phil Purnell
- School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Materazzi M, Taylor R, Cozens P, Manson-Whitton C. Production of BioSNG from waste derived syngas: Pilot plant operation and preliminary assessment. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2018; 79:752-762. [PMID: 30343808 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2018.08.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Bio-substitute natural gas (or BioSNG) produced from gasification of waste fuels and subsequent methanation of the product gas could play a crucial role in the decarbonisation of heating and transportation, and could be a vital part of the energy mix in the coming decades. The BioSNG demonstration plant described in this paper seeks to prove the technical feasibility of the thermal gasification of waste to renewable gas, through a preliminary experimental programme to take an existing stream of syngas, methanate it and show that it can be upgraded to gas grid quality requirements. The syngas used in the project is a waste-derived syngas from a two-stage fluidised bed - plasma pilot facility, which is then converted and upgraded in a new, dedicated conversion and clean up plant. Extensive trials were undertaken on methanation and gas upgrading units for over 60 h of continuous operation. The fundamentals of a once-through methanation process train have been established on the demonstration facility and a model built to extend the analysis over different operational parameters. Over the trials, methane outputs of greater than 50 kWth output were routinely produced from three methanation reactors in series, with a total CO conversion exceeding 90% at pressures as low as atmospheric, in line with kinetic model predictions. Retention of CO2 as well as adequate partial pressure of H2O in the process stream was important for process control. The plant provided demonstration of the efficacy of a PSA system for separation of CO2 (99% removal efficiency) as well as the potential to remove a proportion of residual H2, N2 and CO, although this was associated with appreciable CH4 slip. The process can be optimized primarily by reducing inlet temperature to methanation reactors, controlling syngas composition and using adequate steam to carbon ratio, depending on the type of waste. This information can be used to inform the design and economics of subsequent planned commercial plants that could significantly increase the potential of renewable gas in the UK and elsewhere in Europe, providing a low cost route to low carbon heat and transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Materazzi
- University College London, Department of Chemical Engineering, Torrington Place, London WC1E 7JE, UK; Advanced Plasma Power Ltd, South Marston Business Park, Swindon SN3 4DE, UK.
| | - R Taylor
- Advanced Plasma Power Ltd, South Marston Business Park, Swindon SN3 4DE, UK
| | - P Cozens
- Progressive Energy Ltd, Swan House, Bonds Mill, Stonehouse GL10 3RF, UK
| | - C Manson-Whitton
- Progressive Energy Ltd, Swan House, Bonds Mill, Stonehouse GL10 3RF, UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Słomka-Polonis K, Kordon-Łapczyńska B, Frączek J. Drying kinetics of RDF: Experimental investigation and modeling. BIO WEB OF CONFERENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/20181002030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
An experimental study was performed to determine the drying characteristics of an oversized fraction of RDF alternative fuel using a laboratory scale hot air dryer at a variety air temperatures and a constant air velocity. For this research the industrial RDF was derived from a Regional Municipal Waste Treatment Facility near the city of Kraków, Poland. The samples of RDF were prepared in two forms: ovesized (unmodified condition) and shreded in a two-drum crusher. In addition, the RDF was sorted into three groups of samples: paper, plastic, textiles. Each form of RDF and each group of samples were dried in hot air dryer at temperatures of 50, 70 i 90 °C and a constant air velocity of 1,5 [m·s-1]. The loss of the the samples mass were measured in a continues manner until the equilibrum moisture content was reached. The effective moisture diffusivity [m2·s-1] and activation energies [kJ·mol-1] was amounted. The analysis of the course of moisture content change concludes that that the drying of the RDF alternative fuel occured mainly in the II period of the process during which the transport of water content was carried out by diffusion. And, to a lesser extent, with the surface heat transfer in II period. Based on the calculated data there was a model determined which presented the best possible matching of the course of moisture content change.
Collapse
|