Refuse Derived Fuel Research Articles

A comparison on the critical success factors of MSW and RDF power plant development in Thailand: Using an interpretive structural modelling and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification analysis

Waste-to-energy (WtE) power plants, supplied mainly with municipal solid waste (MSW) and refuse-derived fuel (RDF), which convert waste into electricity, have emerged as a solution to Thailand's waste management problems. This study focused on identifying and studying the critical success factors (CSFs) that influence the success of MSW and RDF power plants in Thailand. This study employed interpretive structural Modelling and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to a classification analysis to evaluate the impact of these CSFs on the development of WtE projects. The results showed that, for MSW, most CSFs were related to energy and waste management policies, followed by waste quality for electricity generation. In addition, strong financial resources and appropriate power plant locations are important for MSW management success. Conversely, for RDF, most CSFs were sufficient waste quality for electricity generation and performed well according to licensing conditions. In this study, high-level CSFs indicated that these factors were crucial for MSW and RDF development. CSFs differ based on specific technologies and regulations. However, sufficient waste quality (heating value and moisture content) is a common CSF in the MSW and RDF technologies. This study provides valuable insights into the CSFs that affect the development of WtE. Understanding and addressing these CSFs is essential for the development and operation of WtE power plants in Thailand and other countries with similar conditions. Thus, policy-makers and other stakeholders can make informed decisions to ensure the success of WtE projects.

Kajian Tekno Ekonomi Terkait Konversi Limbah Biomassa Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) Menjadi Listrik Melalui Metode Gasifikasi Tiga Tingkat dan Mesin Diesel Dual Fuel di Pulau Batam

The increasing energy demand has led to a decrease in the availability of fossil fuels, making it necessary to seek renewable alternative energy sources. One of the alternative energy solutions that is currently being widely developed is biomass. Biomass can be converted into renewable energy through a process called gasification. Gasification is the conversion process of solid fuels, often referred to as Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), which can be processed into Biomass Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) for the three-stage gasification process to produce syngas. Syngas can then be used as fuel for diesel engines to generate electricity in a “Waste to Electric” system. This study utilizes a diesel engine with a dual-fuel system. The objective of operating the diesel engine with a dual-fuel system is to determine the impact of using syngas, obtained from the gasification of RDF pellets, in a diesel engine with a dual-fuel system. The dual-fuel diesel system operates using two types of fuel: diesel fuel and gas fuel. The gas fuel used is syngas resulting from the gasification of RDF biomass pellets. During the gasification process, variations in the air ratio will be adjusted in the pyrolysis, oxidation, and reduction zones with air ratio comparisons of 0:10:0, 1:8:1, 2:7:1, and 1:7:2. The syngas produced from the gasification process will be used as fuel for the dual-fuel diesel engine. The performance characterization of the dual-fuel diesel engine will be conducted by testing the engine at 5000 rpm with load variations from 500 watts to 5000 watts in 500-watt increments, and by varying the mass flow rate of the syngas by adjusting the syngas valve opening. This study aims to demonstrate that RDF has promising potential as a renewable electricity source. The three-stage gasification process has proven effective in converting RDF into high-quality syngas. The dual-fuel diesel engine can operate stably and produce electricity with lower emissions compared to conventional diesel engines. The utilization of RDF biomass waste for power generation through three-stage gasification and dual-fuel diesel engines offers a sustainable solution to waste management issues and provides environmentally friendly electricity on Batam Island.

Recent progress in the operational flexibility of 1 MW circulating fluidized bed combustion

In this study, various experimental tests were carried out with a 1 MWth circulating fluidized bed pilot plant at the Technical University of Darmstadt to investigate the combustion and co-combustion behaviour of different fuels under load change conditions in air and oxyfuel mode. The combustion tests were carried out with low-calorific lignite and hard coal as reference cases for co-combustion. In the co-combustion experimental tests, straw pellets, and refuse-derived fuels (high and low calorific) were used as co-fuels for coal. In addition, a comprehensive dynamic 1.5-D process simulation model was established for a 1 MWth circulating fluidized bed pilot plant. The model created with the “APROS” software precisely reproduces both the gas/solids and the water/steam side of the 1 MWth pilot plant. The dynamic process simulation model was first validated at various steady-state operation points and, in a second step, at various dynamic load changes. The numerical results, such as the pressure drop and temperature profiles along the fluidized bed riser as well as the flue gas concentrations at the cyclone outlet, were compared with the measurements and showed agreement during the long-term tests of the combustion and co-combustion processes.

Synergistic co-steam gasification of biomass and refuse-derived fuel: A path to enhanced gasification performance

The co-steam gasification of biomass (straw) and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) presents a promising pathway for sustainable waste management and renewable energy production, with significant implications for environmental protection. This study investigates the co-gasification of straw and RDF to optimize syngas production and minimize undesired by-products. The optimization of the S/M ratio and gasification temperature is crucial for efficient RDF gasification. The optimal S/M ratio and temperature balance syngas yield, quality (LHV), and process efficiency (carbon conversion efficiency and cold gas efficiency), while minimizing environmental hazards from solid residues. The carbon conversion efficiency of co-gasification of RDF increased by 12.7 % at the S/M 0 f 0.75 and gasification temperature of 800°C, a significant improvement compared to the efficiencies observed for the separate gasification of straw and RDF. Additionally, the gas yield and the cold gas efficiency were increased by 14.43 % and 26.42 % compared to the separate gasification processes, respectively. These results demonstrate the synergistic effects of co-gasifying straw and RDF, enhancing gasification performance and reducing tar formation. The study underscores the potential of co-steam gasification of straw and RDF as a technologically viable and environmentally friendly approach to waste-to-energy conversion, emphasizing the importance of operational optimization for achieving superior energy recovery, resource efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

Comparative analysis of hydrogen-rich syngas production from various feedstocks using bubbling fluidized bed

Any carbon-based materials, including any trash that contains carbon, may be converted into sustainable energy through the thermochemical process known as gasification. The bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) is used for sewage sludge (SS), plastic waste (PW), and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) gasification. The sensitivity analysis of gasification processes is examined. The maximum H2 selectivity in RDF gasification is 70 %, followed by SS (65 %) and PW (62 %) at S/B=2. PW gasification, although producing more H2, generates more CO and CO2 than RDF and SS because to its high carbon content. At 700°C–800°C, three feedstocks have good H2 selectivity. RDF gasification has the best selectivity of all component products over the temperature range. The H2/CO molar ratio range (1–2) for chemical synthesis suggests steam to biomass (S/B) values of 1.2–2.6 for RDF and SS. As S/B value increases, CO/CO2 molar ratio increases, which compresses CO2 for CO production, improving syngas quality, notably for power generation. In PW gasification, the H2/CO ratio (≤2) is expected at >750°C. Pressure only effects H2/CO and CO/CO2, in PW gasification. The evaluation of lower heating value (LHV) and cold gas efficiency (CGE) involves exploring a range of selected parameters. Elevated reaction temperatures positively influence both LHV and CGE; however, this is not the case for S/B ratio and reaction pressure. Among the gasification processes, PW gasification exhibits the highest LHV, while SS gasification demonstrates the highest CGE. Besides, the gasification efficiency (ƞG) is found about 35–41 % at the S/B=2, which is lower than the efficiency in terms of CGE (57.6 %) due to the energy consumption increase as the temperature increased. O2/S increases negatively affect product composition but allow parameter indicator value adjustment to parameter indicator of the desired syngas product quality.

Synergistic pyrolysis with Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) can neutralize bauxite residue

It is estimated that approximately 1.2 tons of bauxite residue (BR) was generated per tonne of alumina produced, and less than 3 % of the annual generation is used. The high alkalinity makes it technically and economically challenging to reuse this material. The study investigated the alkaline neutralization of BR through synergistic pyrolysis with products from Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF). Two types of RDF, from different producers, were used and BR (pH 12) was generated by an alumina refinery in Brazil. Different mass proportions (0, 10, 20 and 50 % w/w) of RDF were used for synergetic pyrolysis. A pyrolysis was performed at 200, 400, 600, and 800 ºC using muffle furnace and crucibles with a residence time of 20 min. The pH of the mixtures after pyrolysis, decreased as the proportion of RDF increased. The results showed that the neutralization of the BR occurred at temperatures of 200 and 400 ºC. However, as the temperature increases (600 and 800 ºC) the pH neutralization is reduced. The best performance was observed for 50 % RDF at 400 ºC with a final pH 8 (33 % reduction). Synergistic pyrolysis of BR and RDF was effective in promoting reduction in the alkaline content of the bauxite residue.

Evaluating the Potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) in Cement Production: a Comparative Analysis of RDF Variations In Indonesia's Emplacement Pluit, Jakarta

This study critically evaluated the potential of Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable substitute for coal in the cement manufacturing process. Using Emplacement Pluit's waste as a primary source, three distinct RDF variations were analyzed: RDF A (comprised purely of PET Charcoal), RDF B (a 50-50 combination of PET Charcoal and organic waste), and RDF C (solely organic waste). Among the parameters evaluated were moisture content, ash content, and calorific value. The results indicated RDF A's superior quality, with a moisture content of 2.6%, ash content of 0.7%, and a calorific value of 25.1 MJ/kg. In stark contrast, RDF C exhibited a high waste reduction potential at 80.5%, but its calorific value fell short of Korean standards. RDF B, balancing quality and reduction potential, achieved a 98.9% waste reduction and met Korean RDF standards, making it the most viable alternative to coal in cement production. The study underscores the significant potential of integrating RDF in industrial practices, particularly cement kilns. It offers insight into optimizing waste management strategies in line with the 'zero-waste' vision.

Catalyzing Refuse-Derived Fuel Understanding: Quantified Insights From Thermogravimetric Analysis

Abstract This study employs thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) to investigate the thermal degradation behavior of various components of refuse-derived fuel (RDF). The analysis is conducted individually for different RDF fractions, including cardboard, mixed papers, mixed plastics, other organics, and fines, alongside raw RDF. TGA experiments are performed in triplicate to ensure repeatability and homogeneity assessment. The results reveal distinct degradation profiles for each material, influenced by moisture content. Cardboard and mixed papers exhibit similar decomposition characteristics attributed to their cellulose content. Cardboard undergoes initial moisture-driven mass loss (5.52%), followed by cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition (58.86%) at 250–400 °C and lignin degradation (10.1%) at 400–500 °C. In contrast, mixed plastics, with an initial moisture content of 0.81%, manifest multiple decomposition steps: polyvinyl chloride (PVC) degradation (3.84%) at 200–335 °C, polystyrene (PS) degradation (6.63%) at 335–400 °C, polypropylene (PP) degradation (24.41%) at 400–450 °C, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE) degradation (54.6%) at 400–500 °C. Other organics, with 1.47% initial moisture content, undergo cellulose decomposition (37.98%) at 200–381 °C and polyester/microfilament degradation (21.3%) at 381–450 °C. Fines display cellulose and hemicellulose decomposition (29.8%) at 200–383 °C and plastics/polyester degradation (43%) at 383–550 °C. LDPE in mixed plastics undergoes pure polymer decomposition at 483.6 °C.

STRATEGI AKSELERASI REFUSED DERRIVED FUEL KABUPATEN CILACAP SEBAGAI PENGGERAK EKONOMI SIRKULAR DI INDONESIA

Waste management is an innovation that needs to be developed. With good management, waste will be transformed into a source of income. Waste management with a technological touch will result in optimal economic improvement. One of the efforts made is the utilization of Refused Derived Fuel (RDF) as an alternative energy source. In this context, waste management becomes very important not only as a technical issue but also as a key to unlocking new potential in a sustainable economy. The research method used in this study is qualitative, with data collection from literature review, field observation, and interviews. SWOT Analysis technique is carried out to formulate optimal strategies. The results of this study indicate that the acceleration of RDF in Cilacap Regency as a driver of the circular economy in Indonesia can be done by implementing the main strategies that have been formulated, namely the development of RDF in Integrated Waste Management Sites (TPST) by optimizing technology and local resources.

Pyrolysis behavior of densified refuse-derived fuels (d-RDFs) via TGA: Investigating the impact of densification degree on thermal kinetics and thermodynamics

The conversion of municipal solid waste (MSW) into its energy-rich fraction, known as refuse derived fuel (RDF), addresses both MSW management and energy demand. RDF comprises a diverse blend of various non-hazardous waste streams, making it challenging to predict physical properties and chemical compositions. However, densification can help overcome these challenges. This work aims to explore the effect of densification degree on kinetic and thermodynamic parameters during the degradation of densified refuse-derived fuels (d-RDFs) in inert atmosphere. Herein, three d-RDFs samples obtained with varying degree of densification and die temperatures ranging from 55 °C to 118 °C, as well as a mixed fines (MF) sample produced during the pelletization process, were analyzed. Pyrolysis potential of d-RDFs and MF were determined using thermogravimetric analysis in the temperature range from 30 to 800 °C, at multiple heating rates of 5, 10, and 20 K min−1. The effect of the degree of densification on physical characteristics, and kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of d-RDF was investigated. Apparent activation energy (Eα) was estimated employing Friedman (FR), Kissinger-Akahera-Sunnose (KAS), and Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO) methods. Derived Eα values were used to determine the pre-exponential factor (Aα) using the Kissinger method. Experimental results revealed that the durability of d-RDFs increased from 79.26 % to 98.73 % as the densification degree increased from II to IX. Furthermore, the Eα values exhibited a decreasing trend in the first peaks of the DTG profiles, while an opposite trend was observed in the second peaks of DTG curves. However, with an increase in the degree of densification, the mean values of Eα decreased by 5–10 % for all methods. The Aα values, assessed using the FR method, surpassed the critical value of (109 s−1) for all samples. However, with the KAS and FWO methods, these values fell below (109 s−1) within the conversion range of 0.05–0.25. Thermodynamic parameters confirmed the endothermicity of the thermal degradation process.

Benefits from co-pyrolysis of biomass and refuse derived fuel for biofuels production: Experimental investigations

The application of renewable fuels and waste for energy production is crucial environmentally and economically. Co-pyrolysis of biomass and refuse derived fuel (RDF) offers a promising pathway for valuable products that combine various benefits including enhanced energy recovery, waste valorisation, improved product quality, and environmental sustainability. Consideration of specific feedstocks and optimization of process parameters are necessary to maximise the efficiency and effectiveness of the co-pyrolysis process. This work presents investigations of the co-pyrolysis process of lignocellulosic biomass wastes (rye straw and agriculture grass) and RDF. These biomasses ensure efficient decomposition. The RDF, high in carbon (78.5 %) and hydrogen (11.8 %), was predominantly plastic based. Based on Py-GC-MS studies at 600 °C, it was observed that the addition of RDF to biomass caused a significant decrease in the share of organic oxygen compounds among the released decomposition products. Laboratory tests were performed in a fixed-bed reactor for raw biomass and RDF and 1:1 and 3:1 biomass to RDF mass ratio. The results demonstrated that the yield of char production decreased with the addition of RDF, which promoted the bio-oil yield. Despite, RDF pyrolysis meets problems, it was proved that co-pyrolysis of biomass and RDF is a good solution for their utilization.

Development of solid recovery fuel for power generation with bacterial bio-drying of municipal solid waste in Lombok Island West Nusa Tenggara

Abstract The growth of waste in big cities in Indonesia increases sharply every year. The Government’s ability to manage solid waste only reaches 40.09% in urban areas and 1.02% in rural areas, so the right policies are needed so that Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) does not save potential problems that will impact the future. The waste problem is no longer just a matter of cleanliness and the environment but has become a social problem that has the potential to cause conflict. The most likely solution to solving the MSW problem is to use it as a source of alternative fuel, which can be done by a mechanical-biological treatment technology into Solid Recovery Fuel (SRF). The proposed SRF processing method is straightforward and requires a little technology; thus, it could be developed at the community level. The MSW is collected and processed by communities and then sold to power plants or factories or used in communities to replace solid fuels such as wood or charcoal. Compared with the standard RDF and SRF specifications, MSW SRF falls under medium-grade Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) or SRF specifications. Further comparison with coal, water hyacinth SRF, and sorghum shows that MSW SRF has several advantages, such as low fixed carbon, sulfur, and moisture, that could be beneficial for combustion performance, which concludes that MSW has potential and meet the specification as an alternative fuel for thermal power plant or other industry that utilizes thermal energy. This paper proposes a processing methodology for municipal solid waste into alternative energy. The method could guide local people in using biomass resources to improve local economic prosperity.

Combustion characteristics of refuse-derived fuel pellets having varying plastic compositions.

The plastic fraction of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) pellets influences fuel's physico-chemical, and mechanical properties, which in turn might affect the combustion behavior of RDF. In the present study, the combustion behavior of different plastic fraction-simulated RDF pellets is reported. The simulated pellets were prepared based on the Indian commercial RDF composition. Initially, the plastic content varied from the existing fraction in Indian commercial RDF, i.e., 35% (RDF-1), to a lower plastic content of 5% (RDF-2). Physico-chemical characterization showed that a higher plastic fraction in RDF-1 reduces its pellet density by 25% as compared to RDF-2. The changes in RDF physico-chemical properties due to plastic variation are reflected in the RDF conversion process. Single-particle and packed-bed studies concluded that the lower density for higher plastic RDF-1 leads to lower conversion times (36%), and higher flame front speed (11%), which are desirable conditions for faster conversion. However, packed-bed studies also showed limitations regarding the utilization of high plastic RDF as RDF-1 has a narrow range of operating air mass flux due to the early advent of convective cooling of the bed. Finally, considering the constraints associated with the utilization of high plastic fraction (~ 35%) RDF and to maximize the effective utilization of plastic in RDF, a workable plastic fraction of 15% in RDF was proposed and tested for its combustion properties. RDF with 15% plastic showed faster conversion, higher flame front speed, and a wider range of operating air mass flux before the advent of convective cooling of the bed.

CURRENT PROBLEMS IN THE COMBUSTIBLE MUNICIPAL WASTE MANAGEMENT – A CASE STUDY FOR PRE-RDF, RDF AND SRF MANAGEMENT IN POLAND

Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) is one of the municipal waste processing products generated inmechanical-biological installations. The RDF production allows energy recovery while reducingthe mass of landfilled waste. RDF is produced mainly from mixed waste stream with combustibleproperties. Currently, the main recipient of RDF fuels in Poland is the cement industry, whichaccepts only high-quality fuels. Annually a reduction of combustible waste share in the pre-RDFfraction intensifies difficulties in producing fuels with a sufficiently high calorific value. However,due to the energy transformation, it is planned that RDF would also be used in the heating sector.A positive aspect of this situation is the emergence of alternative recipients of RDF, even with theirlower calorific value. This may improve the market situation of RDF and reduce operation costs formunicipal installations in the long-term perspective.

Co-feeding biomass and municipal solid waste for enhanced hydrogen and synthetic natural gas yields employing chemical looping process

Synthetic natural gas (SNG) is a promising alternative to conventional fossil natural gas. This study proposes a chemical looping hydrogen production (CLHP)-based route for SNG synthesis and elucidates the insights and necessities of appropriately co-feeding different types of feedstocks to maximize the yields of hydrogen and subsequent SNG. A study employing microalgae (MA) and refuse-derived fuel (RDF) as biomass and municipal solid waste representatives demonstrates that blending MA with RDF in a proportion of 40 %:60 % (0.4MA-0.6RDF) eradicates oxygen carrier splitting. This boosts fuel-to-hydrogen efficiency from 74.1 % to 77.8 %, as well as subsequent thermal and exergy efficiencies of SNG production from 59.07 % and 55.8 % to 61.3 % and 57.92 %, respectively, compared to the use of MA alone. Nonetheless, blending fuels does not yield substantial economic advantages, as evidenced by the levelized cost of SNG production using pure MA and the 0.4MA-0.6RDF blend remaining at approximately 0.63 USD/Nm3.

Utilization of durian peels (Durio zibethinus) and lubricant treatment sludge as raw materials of Refuse-Derived Fuel

Fossil energy is among the most widely utilized energy sources in Indonesian industry, but its continuous use is leading to its depleted. Refuse-derived fuel (RDF) offers an alternative made from organic and inorganic waste. Durian peel is identified as a promising raw material for RDF due to its high calorific value of 6,274 Kcal/kg. Additionally, Lubricant Treatment Sludge (LTS), which is collected from the oil treatment industry, is used to enhance RDF’s calorific value, as it contains residual oil rich in hydrocarbons. To bind the RDF components, tapioca starch, durian seeds, and rejected papaya were selected as adhesives. The mixture ratios of durian skin, LTS, and adhesive were tested at compositions (90:0:10), (85:5:10), (80:10:10), (75:15:10), and (70:20:10). Subsequent RDF characteristics analyses included tests for moisture content, ash content, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and calorific value. Based on these evaluations, the most optimal composition was determined to be 90% durian peel, 0% LTS, and 10% tapioca starch adhesive. This composition exhibited a moisture content of 1.6%, volatile matter of 74.6%, ash content of 8.4%, fixed carbon of 15.2%, and a calorific value of 3,516 Kcal/kg. Tapioca starch emerged as preferred adhesive due to its favorable properties and characteristics.

Comprehensive Analysis of Industrial Solid-Waste-to-Energy by Refuse-Derived Fuel Technology: A Case Study in Shanghai

The prolific generation of industrial solid waste (ISW) in China, coupled with its complex composition, presents significant challenges due to exceeding environmental capacity. Identifying an appropriate approach to maximize the use of ISW, particularly low-value industrial solid waste (LISW), is crucial for addressing environmental issues. This study explores the potential of converting LISW into refuse-derived fuel (RDF), an energy-rich precursor, as a promising method for disposal and reutilization. The advantages of RDF lie primarily in two key areas: management and technology. Regulatory aspects cover principles governing RDF feedstock preparation, storage and transportation requirements, and pollutant emission regulations. Technical considerations include pretreatment techniques, additive selection, and analyzing RDF as a substitute for fossil fuels. To assess the effectiveness of RDF technology in harnessing the remaining energy from LISW, this paper provides an overview of relevant national laws and regulations concerning incineration plants, guiding the utilization of RDF in such facilities. Additionally, using Shanghai as a case study, we evaluate the ISW situation, domestic waste incineration plants, and cement kiln plants to identify potential scenarios for RDF application in future energy systems. Our findings suggest that LISW holds significant potential as a power plant fuel, particularly when blended with higher calorific value materials to produce RDF particles with exceptional combustion performance, density, and storage characteristics.

Advancing towards greener healthcare: Innovative solutions through single-use mask waste to refuse-derived fuel utilization

The healthcare sector faces increasing challenges in managing the environmental impact of single-use masks and medical waste, prompting the exploration of innovative solutions for greener healthcare. This study investigates converting single-use mask waste into Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) as a sustainable waste management approach. A quantitative analysis assessed the average waste generation of single-use masks in a healthcare facility over three months. The potential RDF production was estimated by calculating single-use masks' weight and calorific value. Additionally, Thermogravimetric Analysis was employed to evaluate the thermal behavior of RDF and its suitability as an alternative fuel source. The findings indicate an average monthly waste generation of 41,555 masks weighing 111.2 kg. RDF production from single-use mask waste yields a daily output of 3.706 kg, providing a promising solution to reduce medical waste. TGA analysis reveals a multi-step degradation process for RDF, with a significant mass loss between 300 and 500 °C, rendering it a viable renewable energy source. Converting single-use mask waste into RDF presents an opportunity for healthcare institutions to contribute to net-zero emission goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and embracing sustainable waste management practices.

Combustion Analysis of Mixed Secondary Fuel Produced from Agro-Biomass and RDF in a Fluidized Bed

In recent decades, there has been growing interest in the thermal conversion of various alternative fuels, such as biomass and waste-derived fuels. One of the technological solutions for the so-called direct co-combustion of fuels is to create mixtures of various fuels, called mixed secondary fuel. However, mixed secondary fuel has different properties compared to primary fuels. Due to this, by properly selecting the types and proportions of mixtures, it is possible to eliminate their potentially negative impact on both combustion technology and the natural environment. In this paper, we decided to prepare mixed secondary fuel by mixing sunflower husk pellets with RDF (refuse-derived fuel) in a ratio of 1:1 and then analyze the combustion process of the produced fuel in fluidized bed conditions. The results obtained on the basis of the presented research indicate that the mixed secondary fuel eliminated the impact of alkali metal compounds on reducing the melting point of ash and, consequently, on the combustion process of the mixed secondary fuel. An additional benefit is the reduction of emissions of harmful compounds into the atmosphere occurring during the combustion of municipal waste and compliance with the concept of the circular economy.

Synergistic co-pyrolysis of corn stover and refuse-derived fuel with microplastics: Kinetic and thermodynamic study

Biomass and refuse-derived fuel are prevalent constituents of municipal solid waste worldwide, exerting persistent pressures on environmental ecosystems. Consequently, there arises a critical necessity for their effective recycling and management. This study investigates the co-pyrolysis of corn stover (CS) and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) in a 1:1 mass ratio through kinetic and thermodynamic analyses. Using a thermogravimetric analyzer and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), the co-pyrolysis process is examined within a temperature range of 25–900 °C, under varying heating rates of 5, 10, and 20 °C/min in a nitrogen atmosphere. Kinetic analysis is conducted employing model-free methods, including Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FWO), Starink, and Tang, with subsequent estimation of thermodynamic parameters such as enthalpy change (ΔH), entropy change (ΔS), and Gibbs free energy (ΔG). Additionally, mass and energy balances specific to the blended feedstock are calculated to evaluate future operational efficiency. The investigation reveals the higher heating values (HHV) of CS and RDF as 17.879 and 20.035 kJ/kg, respectively. Notably, the DTG and DSC curves indicate a positive interaction between CS and RDF's plastic component at temperatures exceeding 400 °C. Kinetic analysis yields average activation energies for CS, RDF, and the CS-RDF blend (1:1) as 202.26, 235.87, and 212.60 kJ/mol, respectively, suggesting a reduction in activation energy for the blend. In summary, these findings offer valuable insights into the co-pyrolysis of CS and RDF, thereby contributing to the optimization of co-pyrolysis as an effective waste-to-energy conversion process.