Refuse Derived Fuel Research Articles

Effect of Optimization Use of Nutrient on Yield and Productivity of Mung Bean (Vigna radiata L.)

A field experiment was conducted at experimental farm, Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences, Mewar University Gangrar, Chittorgarh (Rajasthan) during Rabi season of 2023-24 to effect of optimization use of nutrient on yield and productivity of mung bean, variety “SML-832‟ was used in this study. The required quantities of fertilizers as per treatments were applied. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications consisting of ten treatments. The data recorded maximum yield attributes such as number of pods per plant (13.35), number of seed per pod (8.52), grain yield (1170.55 kg/ha), stover yield (3260.47 kg/ha) and maximum net return (67329.45 Rs/ha) and B:C ratio (2.28) was recorded with T8-100% RDF (Refuse-Derived Fuel) + Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1 + Rhizobium. The minimum yield and profitability obtained with control treatment. Therefore, conclude be application of 100% RDF + Vermicompost @ 1.0 t ha-1 + Rhizobium are indigenous sources of nutrient to enhance yield and productivity of mung bean.

Carbonization of Refuse-Derived Fuel Pellets with Biomass Incorporation to Solid Fuel Production

In this work, dry carbonization (DC) and hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) pellets were conducted to evaluate the physical, chemical, and fuel properties of the produced chars. In the dry carbonization tests, biomass sawdust was incorporated in different proportions on the samples to minimize agglomeration caused by the melting of the plastic fraction. The experiments were carried out in a temperature of 400 °C (DC) and 250–300 °C (HTC), in a residence time of 30 min. The respective chars and hydrochars were characterized according to their mass yield, apparent density, proximate, elemental, and mineral composition, chlorine content, high heating value, thermogravimetric profile, and surface functional groups. The results showed that the dry carbonization of RDF pellets with biomass incorporation, followed by a washing step, resulted in the production of chars with improved properties such as higher fixed carbon and higher heating value (HHV) (25–26 MJ/kg) and lower ash and chlorine content. Additionally, the HTC experiments demonstrated that hydrochars showed improved properties without the need for biomass addition and washing, however, with no significant difference in the HHV (20–21 MJ/kg). Therefore, DC of RDF pellets with 10% biomass incorporation seems to be a promising option to overcome the constraints of RDF utilization as an alternative fuel.

Assessment of pyrolysis product characteristics for valorisation of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF)

Assessment of pyrolysis product characteristics for valorisation of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF)

Evaluation of Greenhouse Gas Emission Assessment Resulting from Processing Municipal Organic Waste into Bahan Bakar Jumputan Padat for Co-firing in Power Plants; Case Study: Bagendung Landfill Cilegon City

One type of biomass that can be used as fuel for co-firing in power plants is Bahan Bakar Jumputan Padat (BBJP)/Solid Waste Fuel. BBJP is a non-hazardous waste derivative that cannot be recycled. The production process of BBJP is strictly regulated by the Indonesian national standard (SNI) 8966:2021. The definition, characteristics and specifications of BBJP are much closer to Solid Recovered Fuel (SRF) than Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF). The utilization of BBJP reflects the dedication to reducing waste in landfills with a circular economy concept approach as well as the transition of the energy mix in Indonesia. To the present day, the production capacity of BBJP at Bagendung landfill in Cilegon City, Banten Province, has successfully produced 30 tons/day of organic municipal waste with an average BBJP product yield ranging between 11-15 tons/day. This research is intended to assess the Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG) generated from the processing of municipal waste into BBJP. There are three main processes that produce GHG emissions, namely during bio drying processing, the use of machinery that produces emissions from electricity and the transportation process that produces combustion emissions in diesel fuel. As a result, direct GHG emissions arising from all waste processing activities into BBJP consist of 10 pollutants, namely CH4, N2O, CO, NH3, CO2, NOX, SO2, NVMOC, PM2.5 and ID(1,2,3,c,d)P. CO2 emission is the largest pollutant, accounting for 96.70% of the entire BBJP process.

The Quality Test of Utilization of Palm Oil Solid Waste As a Raw Material For Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) For Alternative Fuels.

The use of palm oil solid waste as a raw material for refuse derived fuel (RDF) is a promising alternative to overcome environmental and energy problems. This study aims to test the quality of RDF produced from palm solid waste by paying attention to the composition of the mixture and treatment method through quantitative experimental methods, which are divided into two stages: processing and quality testing. The results showed that the average calorific value of RDF reached 4,216.75 cal/g, moisture content 10.76%, ash content 4.37%, volatile matter 58.11%, and fixed carbon 26.75%, all of which showed great potential as an alternative energy source. Although the RDF calorific value of palm solid waste is higher than the industry standard, the moisture content and ash content are still below international standards, and the calorific value is slightly below the SNI class 1 standard but higher than that of class 2 and 3. These findings indicate that RDF from palm oil solid waste has the potential to be a good quality alternative fuel.

Navigating the depths of refuse-derived fuel in Canada: From heterogeneity to insightful analysis

ABSTRACT Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) presents inherent heterogeneity, encompassing diverse physical and chemical compositions. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the thermogravimetric characteristics of key RDF fractions and compare them with RDF compositions from Canada and other countries. A representative RDF sample was obtained using three ASTM standard procedures, including the quartering technique, manual sorting, and laboratory preparation. Five major RDF fractions – cardboard (46%), mixed papers (17%), mixed plastics (19%), other organics (3%), and fines (13%) – were manually separated and subjected to cryogenic grinding for characterization analysis. Thermogravimetric characterization at 20°C/min in a nitrogen atmosphere, along with proximate/ultimate analysis and heating value measurements, revealed significant variability in decomposition behavior. DTG analysis showed that LDPE exhibited the highest thermal stability, which peaks at 483.6°C, whereas cardboard and mixed paper underwent single-step decomposition, peaks at 361.4°C, and 359.3°C, respectively. In contrast, mixed plastics, other organics, fines, and raw RDF displayed complex, multi-step decomposition behaviors, underscoring the heterogeneous nature of RDF and informing thermal processing optimization. The Canadian RDF sample showed notably higher cardboard 45% and fines content 13% compared to other studies from different countries averaged 25% cardboard, and 8% fines. Additionally, sorting a 2 kg representative sample required 5 man-hours per kilogram, highlighting the labor-intensive nature of the process.

CH4 and CO2 Reductions from Methanol Production Using Municipal Solid Waste Gasification with Hydrogen Enhancement

This study evaluates the greenhouse gas (GHG) impacts of converting municipal solid waste (MSW) into methanol, focusing on both landfill methane (CH4) emission avoidance and the provision of cleaner liquid fuels with lower carbon intensity. We conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA) to assess potential GHG reductions from MSW gasification to methanol, enhanced with hydrogen produced via natural gas pyrolysis or water electrolysis. Hydrogen enhancement effectively doubles the methanol yield from a given amount of MSW. Special attention is given to hydrogen production through natural gas pyrolysis due to its potential for lower-cost hydrogen and reduced reliance on renewable electricity compared to electrolytic hydrogen. Our analysis uses a case study of methanol production from an oxygen-fired entrained flow gasifier fed with refuse-derived fuel (RDF) simulated in Aspen HYSYS. The LCA incorporates the significant impact of landfill methane avoidance, particularly when considering the 20-year global warming potential (GWP). Based on the LCA, the process has illustrative net GHG emissions of 183 and 709 kgCO2e/t MeOH using renewable electricity for electrolytic hydrogen and pyrolytic hydrogen, respectively, for the 100-year GWP. The net GHG emissions using 20-year GWP are −1222 and −434 kgCO2e/t MeOH, respectively. Additionally, we analyze the sensitivity of net GHG emissions to varying levels of fugitive methane emissions.

A new system using refuse-derived fuel as a feedstock for hydrogen and power co-generation: A techno-environmental assessment

Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) offers a promising opportunity for Canada to proceed with its transition towards a circular economy. This study focuses on the development of a pseudo-steady-state process simulation model to integrate RDF processing and utilization technologies with the existing plants. Canada’s RDF is chosen as a potential feedstock and is coupled with the two cycles, namely Sulfure Iodine (S-I) thermochemical cycle for hydrogen production and dual pressure loop power (DPLP) cycle for electricity generation. A comprehensive process modeling and simulation is undertaken in the Aspen Plus software package. An integrated environmental and thermodynamic assessment of the plant, including energy and exergy analyses, is conducted. Several sensitivity analyses are conducted to predict the ideal operational parameters for optimized efficiency. It is found that a feed of 1300 kg/h RDF generates 96.76 kg of clean hydrogen and 382.24 kW of clean power. The results show RDF-to-power and RDF-to-H2 energy efficiency of 22.19 % and 25.27 % respectively. Regarding the environmental performance, the results show that the proposed plant avoids 423.82 tons of CO2 emissions per year for clean hydrogen production and 1685.45 tons of CO2 emissions per year for clean power production. The overall performance of the developed system in terms of efficiencies is 35.91 % for energy and 42.46 % for exergy.

Potential Use of Municipal Solid Waste Pile in Segawe Landfill (Tulungagung Regency, Indonesia) as Raw Material for Refuse Derived Fuel

The Segawe municipal solid waste (SW) landfill in Tulungagung Regency, Indonesia, has currently exceeded its capacity. This study aimed to determine the potential use of dumped SW at the landfill as raw material for the production of refuse derived fuel (RDF). Buried SW samples were collected at a passive zone of the landfill in six locations. The samples were sieved using 10 and 30 mm mesh sieves. A composition analysis was conducted following the ASTM D5231-92 method to sample fractions of greater than 30 mm size. The density was measured according to the weight and volume. The moisture and volatile matter contents were analyzed using the ASTM D2216-10 and D3175-07 methods, respectively. The calorific value was measured using a Parr C3000 bomb calorimeter following the ASTM D5865 method.The buried SW composition was dominated by a fraction size that was greater than 30 mm (79.4%). This fraction was dominantly composed of plastics (71.2%) and had average volatile matter and calorific values which met RDF criteria as a fuel. However, the ash and moisture contents exceeded the standards and, therefore, required appropriate treatments before their applications.

Performance analysis of refuse‐derived fuel gasification plant with carbon capture and storage for power, heating, and hydrogen production

AbstractAmong various waste‐to‐energy technologies, gasification is one of the most promising, because of high efficiency, feedstock flexibility, and carbon capture potential. This case study is focused on comprehensive analysis of integrated gasification combined cycle‐based plant with refuse‐derived fuel (RDF) as feedstock and carbon capture. As there are hardly any studies focused on simulation of waste gasification with carbon capture, most of which are lacking important process specifics, this study addresses existing research gap. Process flowsheets are developed in detail according to literature data for various process configurations and simulated in AspenPlus software, while obtained results on material and energy balance were used for estimation of plant efficiency and performance indicators. Waste generation data in Novi Sad, Serbia, were used for determination of RDF flowrate. Configurations include different syngas cleaning pathways, final products (power, heating, and hydrogen) and co‐gasification with coal. Cogeneration increases overall plant efficiency from 27%–36% (power production only) to 63%–76%. High net hydrogen efficiencies, around 58%, compensate lower power and thermal energy production in hydrogen‐based configurations. Overall, co‐gasification produces better results due to higher feedstock heating value. Obtained results will be used in further research for environmental and economic evaluation to provide multi‐level assessment of proposed processes.

Preliminary findings on the potential of converting municipal solid waste into refuse-derived fuel as an alternative renewable energy source from the Jakarta waste case study

Abstract The conversion of municipal solid waste (MSW) to refuse-derived fuel (RDF) is a promising technology for addressing waste management issues and obtaining a sustainable source of renewable energy. However, the implementation of RDF technology for MSW management in Indonesia, particularly in urban areas, has not yet been realized. This study aims to evaluate the viability of producing RDF from MSW, specifically the waste generated by Jakarta city, which is representative of other large cities in Indonesia. The research analyzed the MSW, including its physical and chemical properties, such as composition, proximate and ultimate analysis, and energy content. In order to investigate the potential adoption of bio-drying technology for the production of RDF from waste in Jakarta, a pilot scale experiment was conducted using a batch system. The results of the characterization indicate that the sample comprises of more than 50% organic waste, and furthermore, the moisture content in the samples is greater than 60%. The waste typically contains a carbon content of around 50% and a calorific value of approximately 1400 kcal/kg. RDF products produced through bio-drying can achieve a moisture content of 37.88% and a heating value of 2675 kcal/kg. The results further emphasize the potential of the produced RDF as a feasible source of renewable energy.

Evaluating energy generation potential from municipal solid waste in an open dumping site of Khulna

The expanding global population, waste output, land scarcity, and environmental deterioration make waste-to-energy (WtE) technology a feasible option for managing MSW. This study explores the economic benefits of WtE in the Rajbandh open dumpsite in Khulna and the potential of generating energy from MSW. The electricity generation potential under alternative scenarios namely scenario 2 (landfill gas to electricity (LFGTE)), scenario 3 (mass-burn incineration), scenario 4 (hybrid LFGTE, mechanical–biological treated (MBT) anaerobic digestion (AD) and incineration), and scenario 5 (hybrid AD and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) incineration) is based on projected waste generation over the next 20 years, taking population growth into account. These four options are compared to Business as Usual (BAU). Scenario 3 has the highest electricity generation capacity at 207799.73 MWh/year, followed by hybrid RDF-incineration/MBT-AD (scenario 5), LFGTE, however, lowest generation at 30683.07 MWh/year. Net Present Value (NPV), Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), and Payback Period define each scenario’s economic feasibility. Due to its greatest NPV of approximately 41.378 million USD, Scenario 3 is the most economically beneficial. Sensitivity analysis has been done selecting some sensitive parameters to evaluate the robustness of the output. Waste reduction model (WARM) estimates greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy use for each scenario. However, scenario 3 has the lowest GHG emissions and energy use. In addition to reducing GHG emissions and energy usage, recycling waste increased NPV and economic benefits. This analysis reveals that scenario 3 is the best way to generate power, provide economic benefits, and reduce energy consumption for ecologically friendly waste management in Khulna City.

Materials characterization for Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) production as renewable energy resources

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of key parameters—volatile matter, carbon content, ash content, and gross energy—across various material samples intended for Refused Derived Fuel (RDF) briquette production. Through meticulous examination, promising trends emerge, highlighting optimal material combinations for efficient combustion and heat generation. Samples rich in volatile matter and carbon content, notably those incorporating wood powder, demonstrate elevated calorific values, indicating their potential for effective energy production. Conversely, material combinations with low ash content suggest cleaner combustion and reduced environmental impact. The gross energy analysis further validates the substantial heat generation potential of specific sample combinations, rendering them suitable for diverse heating applications. These findings emphasize the critical role of precise raw material selection and meticulous manufacturing process optimization in producing RDF briquettes with desirable properties. Such briquettes not only offer economic viability but also contribute to environmental sustainability by providing an alternative fuel source with reduced emissions. This research underscores the importance of continued exploration and refinement in the development of RDF briquettes, aiming to meet growing energy demands while mitigating environmental concerns.

MSW-TO-RDF CONVERSION FOR CEMENT PLANT IN INDONESIA THROUGH PILOT PROJECT AND MODELING

Aiming for sustainable MSW and cement industry practices, this study assessed the conversion of municipal solid waste (MSW) to refuse-derived fuel (RDF) in four major Indonesian areas. Physical and chemical properties, particle size distribution, and MSW fraction analysis were performed to characterize the MSW before utilizing the MSW for the pilot project. In the pilot project, MSW was shredded and separated to produce RDF and low-grade RDF. RDF produced was quantified, and the output was analyzed to determine the RDF quality. RDF modeling was set based on the pilot project outcome, where the potential quantity, analysis, and feasibility were evaluated. The analysis revealed a need for better MSW processing due to a low heating value (LHV) of 5.4 MJ/kg and high moisture content (MC) of 52-57%. Combustible materials were found to be crucial for RDF quality. A pilot processing 1,000 Mg of MSW resulted in RDF with an LHV of 8.7 MJ/kg and MC of 47% and low-grade RDF with an LHV of 3.0 MJ/kg and MC of 61%, highlighting the importance of drying phase to meet quality standards. The modeling incorporated a two-step drying process, including hot gas utilization at the cement plant. 13 RDF units processing 6,500 MSW Mg/day were needed to produce 3100 Mg/day of RDF (equal to 50% fuel substitution), which could significantly reduce CO2 emissions and MSW by 45% in Jakarta and its neighboring cities, marking an effort for eco-friendlier cement manufacturing.

Experimental Investigation of Sulfur and Nitrogen Oxide Emissions and Corrosion Propensity During the Combustion of Coals and Biomass Fuels

ABSTRACT The increasing use of biomass in Indonesian coal-fired power plants, mainly through co-firing, presents challenges due to different fuel characteristics, which can affect gas emissions, ash deposition, and combustion efficiency. This study assesses flue gas emissions (SO2 and NOx) and corrosion tendencies of various biomass types and coal. The study begins with characteristic testing and ash analysis of coal and biomass samples, including proximate, ultimate, and calorific value analyses, to determine their suitability as fuels. Preliminary calculations predict flue gas emissions and ash deposit formation, followed by laboratory-scale combustion experiments using a DTF to assess flue gas and ash deposit characteristics. The results show that sulfur in biomass is converted to the gas phase up to 99%, while in coal, it is converted up to 95% at high temperatures. NOx levels are primarily affected by the nitrogen contents of the fuels; for instance, Coal-B at 0.88 wt% produces less NOx than solid recovered fuel (SRF) and refused derived fuel (RDF) with 1.73 wt% and 1.51 wt%, respectively, yet still generates higher emissions than the other three biomass types. In general, wood chips (WC), rise husk (RH), and palm kernel shell (PKS) emit 30–80% less flue gas compared to coal. However, ash deposition results indicate that PKS, SRF, and RDF exhibit corrosion tendencies due to the dominance of albite (NaAlSi3O8) in the mineral phase. Additionally, the high chlorine content in SRF (0.544 wt%) and RDF (0.224 wt%) leads to the formation of sticky ash deposits, which potentially impact heat transfer surfaces. These findings contribute to identifying suitable biomass types for both co-firing or dedicated combustion in coal-fired power plants.

Sustainable management of family life and finance in the context of digital capabilities - data flow dynamics

In recent years, biorefining Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) has gained attention as a promising solution to the challenges of waste management and resource shortages, while also advancing sustainability goals. This research focuses on the European Union, analyzing the material flow and sustainability of biorefining systems and evaluating their impact on society, the economy, and the natural environment. The final products of the integrated material recovery processes, including recycling (18.3 %), heavy metals (3.6 %), fiber (1.4 %), hydrogen sulfate (7.4 %), recoverable water (14.8 %), fertilizer (8.4 %), and electric power (0.126 MWH/t MSW), are derived from the combined operations of material recovery facilities, pulverization, chemical conversion, wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), and combined heat and power (CHP) systems. The CHP system recovers energy from sources such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF), other disposable waste, charcoal, and natural gas produced by material recovery facilities, chemical conversion, and anaerobic digestion (AD) systems. Levulinic acid (LA), priced at 52 Euro/t, generates a profit of 220 Euro/t, excluding any subsidies. Potential reductions in carbon dioxide emissions are estimated at 2.5 and 1.4 kg CO2 equivalents per kilogram of levulinic acid (LA) and fertilizer, respectively, and 0.18 kg CO2 equivalents per megajoule of electrical power. This study underscores the importance of sustainable management practices in the context of digital capabilities, emphasizing the data flow dynamics essential for optimizing family life and finance in achieving sustainability.

Effects of ash formation during co-firing refuse-derived fuel with coal on initial superheater material degradation

ABSTRACT Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) has significant potential as a co-firing fuel in power plants. However, its different characteristics from coal, particularly the high chlorine (Cl) concentration in the ash deposits, can degrade metal elements during combustion. This study aims to investigate the effect of adding RDF to coal on the initial degradation of materials caused by ash deposits during combustion. This research is conducted on a laboratory scale using a drop tube furnace to simulate pulverized coal boiler conditions, analyzying ash deposits, mineral transformations, and evaluating the microstructure of the probe material. The results show that the chlorine content in the R-10 at 0.035 wt% substantially affects the initial degradation of 18Cr-Ni during combustion. The oxide layer begins to degrade in the second hour due to ash deposits, reaching 2.38 μm. The presence of Ca (1.11%), K (1.66%), Na (4.46%), and Cl (0.42%) increases to 1.12% on the metal surface, gradually attacking the substrate area and forming cavities. Degradation increases linearly up to probe-8, resulting in a thickness loss of 3.81 μm and a significant reduction in chromium content, which decreases by 12.54%. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the impact of chlorine levels in RDF, which can aggressively attack and corrode metals.

Deep Learning Techniques for Enhanced Flame Monitoring in Cement Rotary Kilns Using Petcoke and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF)

Deep Learning Techniques for Enhanced Flame Monitoring in Cement Rotary Kilns Using Petcoke and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF)

Influence of rice husk dosage on PM emissions during the co-firing of coal with refuse derived fuel

A self-designed drop tube furnace (DTF) was constructed to investigate the particulate matter (PM) emissions generated from blending 0–30 wt% refuse derived fuel (RDF) and 0–20 wt% rice husks (RH) with bituminous coal during co-firing. The physiochemical characteristics of PM were determined using XRD, XRF, and SEM-EDS, and the creation of the liquid components at varying temperatures was investigated using theoretical thermodynamic calculations based on fuel composition and combustion atmospheres. The results demonstrated that blending 0–30 wt% RDF with coal did not result in significant PM emissions. PM0.5 and PM2.5 yields declined by 31.5% and 39.5%, respectively, with the addition of 20 wt% RH. By solely adding RDF, more Ca-Al-Si and K/Ca-Si formed viscous surfaces or particle bodies that could capture Ca/K vapor released from the volatiles of RDF in the gas bulk. Si-rich and Al-Si species from coal were consumed and transformed into Na/K-Ca-Al-Si to enhance the production of the liquid phase by the abundant Si in the volatiles of RH. Two possible paths of mineral transformations during co-firing were discussed to prove that alkali metals and alkaline earth metals preferentially condensed on Si-rich and Al-Si species to form liquid substances and capture the vapor and grains in the gas bulk, rather than combining with nonmetallic elements to generate precursors for PM generation via the evaporation–condensation mechanism. This study contributes to the search for an efficient pathway to realize simultaneous waste utilization and greenhouse gas reduction.

Maximizing Waste-to-Energy Potential: Optimizing Batch Torrefaction Reactor of Refused-Derived Fuel for Efficient Gasification

Abstract Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) from municipal solid waste (MSW) is a promising alternative to fossil fuels, but its varied composition can impede direct gasification. This industrial research project conducted a series of batch experiments to assess four key parameters: energy yield, mass yield, energy density, and combustion characteristics in the context of RDF torrefaction. The batch reactor processed RDF samples at temperatures of 250°C, 300°C, and 350°C, each with a 30- minute residence time under an inert atmosphere. In addition, Combustion TGA experiments, involving heating torrefied RDF up to 1000°C at a rate of 20°C/min, provided further insights into the robust combustion properties of the torrefied material. Unlocking the secrets of torrefaction magic, we've achieved remarkable energy content boosts. Torrefaction at 250°C, 300°C, and 350°C led to energy content enhancements of 22%, 29%, and 37%, respectively, compared to the original RDF. Notably, the most favorable energy yield was achieved during torrefaction at 250°C, attributed to both its relatively high energy content and mass yield. At a torrefaction temperature of 250 °C and above, the torrefied RDF samples exhibited heating values comparable to standard coal ranges between 25-35 MJ/kg. It is suggested that torrefaction of RDF is an effective pre-treatment process to be used in entrained flow gasifier due to the improved higher heating value, higher energy density, and superior combustion characteristics, proved by the ignition index, flammability index, and burnout index, highlight the effectiveness of the torrefaction process.