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Municipal solid waste in situ moisture content measurement using an electrical resistance sensor
Nitin A Gawande1, Debra R Reinhart, Philip A Thomas
1University of Central Florida, PO Box 162993, Orlando, FL 32816-2993, USA.
Waste Management (New York, N.Y.)
|September 6, 2003
Summary
A new sensor accurately measures in situ moisture content (MC) in solid waste landfills by correlating electrical resistance to MC. This technology is promising for bioreactor landfills, improving waste degradation monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Geotechnical Engineering
- Waste Management
Background:
- Moisture content (MC) is critical for solid waste degradation in landfills.
- Existing MC measurement techniques have significant limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel in situ sensor for measuring solid waste MC in landfills.
- To assess the sensor's performance under various conditions and its suitability for bioreactor landfills.
Main Methods:
- Developed a sensor measuring electrical resistance across a granular matrix, correlated to MC.
- Integrated thermocouple for simultaneous temperature measurement and tubing for gas sampling.
- Conducted laboratory experiments to determine optimal granular media, assess electrical conductivity and temperature influences, and calibrate the sensor.
Main Results:
- The sensor effectively detects MC in solid waste when moisture can move into the sensor.
- Established calibration relationships between sensor resistance and gravimetrically determined MC.
- Identified the influence of moisture electrical conductivity and temperature on resistance measurements.
Conclusions:
- The developed sensor shows promise for accurate in situ MC measurement in landfills.
- This technology can enhance monitoring and control in bioreactor landfills, optimizing waste degradation.