Thermo-catalytic reforming of general waste to produce biofuels

Abstract

This work investigates the feasibility of extracting biofuels from general wastes, with significant non-recyclable and inorganic components, through the novel thermo-catalytic reforming (TCR®) technology. Two forms of general waste (Up-Sieve Material and Grey Compost) supplied by Risorse Ambiente Palermo (RAP) are studied. Each feedstock is shredded, pelletised and characterised. Analyses of the feedstock materials show the Up-Sieve Material has a higher heating value (HHV) of 17.6 MJ kg−1 with an ash content of 19.60% (by weight), while the Grey Compost has a HHV of 11.5 MJ kg−1 and an ash content of 40.16%. The results of the TCR® experiments on both feedstock materials show they can be thermochemically converted into energy carriers in significant quantities. The characterisation results of the oil and char from the Up-Sieve Material show they have HHVs of 38.2 MJ kg−1 and 13.6 MJ kg−1 respectively, while the oil and char from the Grey compost have HHVs of 37.0 MJ kg−1 and 5.7 MJ kg−1 respectively. In addition, the biogases produced from both feedstock materials are rich in hydrogen (up to 30% by volume each). Hence, apart from the chars and the reaction product water, the products can be further processed into biofuels due to their fuel-grade properties. Therefore, the successful extraction of biofuels from general waste is an important step in renewable energy harnessing, waste management and environmental protection.