Paper Contents
Abstract
Universities face environmental and logistical challenges because they generate a large amount of solid waste. This study assessed the potential of waste-to-energy (WtE) technology for a state universitys waste management practices. A solid waste analysis and characterization study (SWAC) was conducted to determine the feasibility of WtE adoption on the campus. This analysis effectively determined the composition of solid waste generated. The study discovered that a considerable part of garbage generated may be recycled, suggesting more effective recycling methods should be established to significantly decrease waste. Additionally, a significant amount of mixed waste was identified, which could be a suitable fuel source for WtE technologies given the energy content of different types of waste, mixed waste was identified as a potential resource for conversion processes such as plasma or gasification. This study also emphasized the importance of the drying methods of the waste for the SWAC study which is essential when choosing WtE technology. The waste analysis data show that mixed solid waste, with a moisture content of 25.25% and a calorific value of 26.86 MJkg, is suitable for plasma technology. Plastic bottles (46.56% moisture, 22.53 MJkg calorific value), plastic cups (5.13% moisture, 41.4 MJkg), plastic bags (29.29% moisture, 40.8 MJkg), and cardboard (26.83%, 27 MJKg are ideal for pyrolysis. Bond paper, mixed Paper, and kitchen food waste, with moisture contents of 24.36%, 17.37%, and 17.87% and calorific values of 13.5 MJkg, 15.02 MJKg, and 13.66 MJkg are best produced anaerobically. Wood, with a moisture content of 22.12% and a calorific value of 14.4 MJkg, respectively, are suited for gasification. Styrofoam, with a moisture content of 43.73% and a high calorific value of 40 MJkg, is also suitable for pyrolysis. Rock with a moisture content of 18.86% and a calorific value of 1.8 MJKg is not suitable for any WtE technology. Lastly, garden waste, with a moisture content of 38.82% and a calorific value of MJkg, respectively, is best handled anaerobically. Generally, the findings pave the way for a well-informed decision on the most suitable waste-to-energy technology for the university. By harnessing the energy potential of its waste stream, the university can contribute to a more sustainable future while reducing its reliance on landfills.
Copyright
Copyright © 2024 Allen Jade G. Ignacio. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License.
