Search the EPA Research Database

Project title

Valorisation of composted organic fines and sewage sludge using pyrolysis. �OF-PYR�

Primary Funding Agency

Environmental Protection Agency

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

n/a

Lead Organisation

University of Limerick (UL)

Lead Applicant

J J Leahy

Project Abstract

The aim of this project is to investigate the feasibility of converting organic fines from MSW and sewage sludge to a value-added solid product (char) through a thermochemical pyrolysis process and to evaluate the chemical, structural and combustion and inertness properties of the char for its potential use for high temperature combustion and the inertness of the vitrified slag. The biodegradable wastes arise in large quantities and present high costs to waste companies and local authorities to safely treat, recover or dispose of. Regulations to discourage high-impact treatment and recovery routes are putting pressure on waste management entities to choose alternatives which are often costlier. Forecasts for the quantities arising of both organic fines (OF) and sewage sludge (SS) show no signs of them decreasing in the coming decade while OF treatment capacity in Ireland for is limited at present. Waste collectors, sorters and composters will collaborate with university researchers, Irish Water and a technology designer to test, optimise and demonstrate at pilot scale a robust process for pyrolysing composted OF with blends of SS and other drier refuse derived fuel. Full physical/chemical characterisation of wastes and process products will be undertaken at UL. The project will produce the following data tables - - Characterisation of physical properties and ultimate analysis of feedstock material; - Optimum process conditions for pyrolysis of OF and SS blends for specific product objectives (eg., low bio-oil production). - Mass balance from lab scale pyrolysis experiments of feedstock blends. - Characterisation of physical properties and ultimate analysis of pyrolysis products, ie char, synthesis gas and bio-oil. - Report on Mass & energy balance of pilot scale process. - Report on char combustion behaviour at different temperatures. This will be used by PGE to prepare an initial design of a thermal oxidiser to function as a vitrifier of ash. Other:- - Peer reviewed journal publication on pyrolysis of organic fines and sewage sludge. - Conference Presentations & Proceedings. - Project results dissemination material consisting of an A4 triptych with project concept summary, objectives, results and conclusions. - Enviro-Economic feasibility study consisting of analysis of several industry-compatible business models - Report on Environmental & Policy implications of the proposed technology solutions with conclusions and recommendations for national and regional policy makers. Process know how for TCBB and PGE. Boosting of research capacity at UL and TCBB

Grant Approved

�287,034.59

Research Hub

Green and Circular Economy

Research Theme

Resource efficiency

Start Date

01/03/2016

Initial Projected Completion Date

01/10/2018