Abstract
This experimental research aimed to examine potential production and utilization of RDF derived from mixed municipal solid waste using bio-drying technology to be used as a substitute fuel for the traditional fuel currently used in cement plants in Jordan. The characteristics of RDF produced were identified and compared with limits and criteria set by some European countries. An economic model for RDF utilization in cement industry was created. The model proposes six different options resulting from adding RDF as a substitute fuel for the petcoke fuel currently used. A cost analysis for each option proposed was performed to estimate the economic and environmental savings of RDF utilization in cement industry. At the end of the bio-drying process, the mass of dried waste directed to the landfill was reduced by about 35%. In the case of the recovery of RDF materials from dried waste, the mass of waste to be landfilled was reduced by 69%. The bio-drying process allowed an increase in the heating value of waste (LHV) by 58% to reach 15.58 MJ/kg, as a result of the reduction of waste moisture. RDF produced had high calorific value, low water content, and satisfactory chlorine content. With regard to the concentration of the heavy metals, all of the RDF samples tested had lower concentrations than those values set by some European countries. The findings showed that adding 15% RDF as a substitute fuel, equaling 4.92 tons/h, to the fuel used in cement kilns will save 486 USD/h in petcoke costs, with 2.27 tons/h of CO2 being emitted into the atmosphere at a net saving of 389 USD/h.
Highlights
Solid waste management (SWM) and disposal is considered one of the main significant challenges facing urban communities around the world
The model proposes six different options resulting from adding Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a substitute fuel for the fuel currently used at Manaseer Cement Factory
The net cost savings calculations, which take CO2 cost savings and RDF cost and efficiency losses into account, show that the net annual savings are about 2,798,902 USD/year USD. In this experimental research, using bio-drying technology, potential production and utilization of RDF derived from mixed municipal solid waste to be used as an alternative fuel for the cement industry in Jordan was investigated
Summary
Solid waste management (SWM) and disposal is considered one of the main significant challenges facing urban communities around the world. SWM has utilized many advanced technologies and strategies [1]. There is a wide range of alternative solid waste management options and strategies available for dealing with mixed solid waste to limit the residual amount left for disposal to the landfill [2]. As in many developing countries, municipal solid waste (MSW) is considered one of the major environmental problem in Jordan. Population growth in urban centers, lack of strategic planning, lack of proper disposal facilities, limited collection services, use of inappropriate technology, and inadequate financing are considered the main problems facing SWM [3]
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