Gas simulation models for solid waste landfills

Abstract

Sanitary landfills remain an attractive disposal route for municipal solid waste, because, in most cases, it is more economical than other alternatives such as incineration and composting. Although the composition of solid waste may very substantially with location and time, organic materials constitute the vast majority of this waste. Organic materials are susceptible to microbial decomposition that result in gas and heat generation within the landfill. The migration of gas away from the landfill boundaries and their release into the surrounding environment, present serious environmental concerns at both existing and new facilities. Mathematical models have been used widely to evaluate gas and heat generation and transport processes in landfills. This article presents a critical review of models designed to simulate biological, chemical, and physical processes responsible for the generation and transport of gas and heat in landfills.