Energy recovery: alternative to municipal solid waste(MSW) and biomass waste

Abstract

In the separation process of the MSW (Municipal Solid Waste), refused materials are generated whose destination is landfills. Recently, an appropriate destination for these wastes (non-recycled material) has been energy recovery in the form of RFD (Refuse Derived Fuel). In Brazil, RDF has been used experimentally by the cement industry. The biggest difficulties for using the RDF have been the great heterogeneity (hindering the control of processes in industries) and the chlorine content (originated by the presence of PVC). Another source of renewable energy widely used by industries is biomass. Although it is one of the oldest forms of fuel, biomass energy is used with low efficiency. The biggest problems are due to heterogeneity (granulometry, moisture content, chemical composition, among others). Thus, both RDF and biomass, a detailed characterization of the material is necessary to define the quality and properties for use as a fuel. Among the analyzes, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) stands out; thermogravimetric analysis - TGA; X-ray diffraction - XRD; determination of High Heating Value - HHV. The expected results are: to improve the biomass / RDF characterization with the inclusion of FTIR analyzes; provide data that enable greater reliability for the application of RDF in industries; raise the level of analysis to obtain results that make it possible to publish articles in international journals; increase scientific production: publications, number of advisers, project funding, partnerships with companies. The results of the project will directly contribute to the scientific and technological development of solid fuels, more precisely, the use of biomass residues and RDF. (AU)