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Deodorization and dewatering of biosolids by using dimethyl ether.

Hideki Kanda¹, Mayumi Morita, Hisao Makino

¹Energy Engineering Research Laboratory, Central Research Institute of Electric Power Industry, Yokosuka, Japan. kanda@criepi.denken.or.jp

Water Environment Research : a Research Publication of the Water Environment Federation

|February 5, 2011

Summary

A novel method uses liquefied dimethyl ether (DME) to effectively deodorize and dewater biosolids at room temperature. This process yields biosolids with high caloric density, suitable for use as carbon-neutral fuel.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Waste Management

Background:

Biosolids treatment often involves energy-intensive processes for deodorization and dewatering.
Odorous compounds and excess water in biosolids pose challenges for disposal and resource recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop an efficient method for deodorizing and dewatering biosolids.
To evaluate the potential of treated biosolids as a sustainable fuel source.

Main Methods:

Liquefied dimethyl ether (DME) was employed as an extractant for odorous substances and water.
A bench-scale experimental setup was utilized to conduct the treatment at ambient temperatures.

Main Results:

The proposed method achieved near-complete deodorization and dewatering of biosolids.
The treated biosolids exhibited significant caloric density, indicating fuel potential.

Conclusions:

Liquefied DME offers a promising, low-temperature approach for biosolids treatment.
Deodorized and dewatered biosolids can be repurposed as a viable carbon-neutral fuel, contributing to a circular economy.