Energy Extraction From Waste
by RDF'er
Posted on 28-01-2023 10:29 PM
Energy extraction from waste is one of the most promising renewable energy sources. It helps to reduce pollution caused by the dumping of waste in landfills. In addition, it is a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Depending on the process used, energy can be produced for a wide range of applications. These include electricity and thermal.
Waste to energy (WTE) is a process that converts waste chemicals and other non-recyclable solid waste into energy, either for electrical or thermal use. WTE aims to minimize the amount of waste that goes into landfills by producing valuable heat and other forms of energy from the waste. This form of technology is a natural development of the push for clean solid waste management.
Waste to energy plants can be used to produce electricity, thermal power, and methane gas. This form of energy can also be utilized as a source of secondary fuel resources. The total amount of biodegradable waste that can be processed depends on the capacity of the plant. A waste to energy plant can be efficient at using degradable organic waste or the biodegradable portion of municipal solid waste.
A number of methods for converting waste into energy exist in Malaysia. These methods include combustion, pyrolysis, and anaerobic digestion.
Gasification is another method for extracting energy from waste. It involves the conversion of organic waste into synthesised gas, which is then used for electricity production. Generally, gasification is followed by combustion.
But in some cases, pyrolysis can be used instead of gasification. Pyrolysis is a process that requires lower temperatures than combustion and may cause less emissions.
Gasification, in particular, is more effective than incineration. Compared to incineration, it may be able to produce up to 30% more energy. However, it has a much higher initial capital cost. Typically, waste is heated in a furnace before it is combusted.
For combustion, the waste needs to have a calorific value of at least seven MJ/kg.
While Norway has banned the construction of new landfills, the country is moving toward a more sustainable waste treatment system. Waste trade between Norway and Sweden has grown rapidly over the last decade. This trade benefits both countries. One study found that the total energy generated from waste by the two countries in 2011 was 3.04 terawatt hours (TWh). The same study found that the total CO2 output was reduced by 500 kg for each ton of waste.
One of the main arguments for combusting waste instead of landfilling it is that it is more environmentally friendly. In addition,can be cheaper.
According to the Norwegian Environmental Agency, waste exports to Waste to Energy plants in the EU can be a better option than landfilling it. Similarly, it may be possible to develop waste combustion plants closer to the source of the waste, as opposed to transporting it to a faraway power plant.
Waste trade is a complex issue. Many critics point out that the environmental effects of such trade are often not given proper consideration. Moreover, the potential for financial gain is difficult to quantify.
