Three municipal solid waste gasification technologies analysis for electrical energy generation in Brazil

Area of Science:

• Environmental Engineering
• Energy Science
• Waste Management

Background:

• Brazil faces significant challenges with municipal solid waste (MSW) management, with a substantial portion ending in inadequate disposal sites.
• The State of São Paulo exhibits the highest per capita waste generation in Brazil.
• Landfilling is the primary disposal method, necessitating exploration of alternative sustainable solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the potential for electricity generation from MSW gasification in Santo André, Brazil.
• To compare the performance of three distinct MSW gasification technologies: TPS Termiska Processer AB, Carbogas, and Energos.
• To assess different energy conversion systems, specifically internal combustion engines and steam power cycles.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of specific characteristics of three commercial gasification technologies, including reactor type and fuel properties.
• Modeling of electricity generation schemes using internal combustion engines and steam power cycles.
• Process parameter adoption to simulate and compare the performance of each technology.

Main Results:

• The Carbogas technology, when paired with internal combustion engines, demonstrated the highest electricity generation efficiency at 30%.
• This combination also yielded the lowest cost for electrical energy production, at US$65.22 MWh⁻¹, considering Santo André's gate fee.
• Specific technology and energy conversion system choices significantly impact overall efficiency and economic viability.

Conclusions:

• MSW gasification presents a viable and potentially more sustainable alternative to current waste management practices in Brazil.
• The Carbogas gasification technology, coupled with internal combustion engines, is the most efficient and cost-effective option for electricity generation in Santo André.
• Further investigation into waste-to-energy technologies is crucial for improving Brazil's municipal solid waste management strategies.