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Optimization of municipal solid waste incineration for low-NOx emissions through numerical simulation
Zhaobin Li1, Tang Wai Fan2, Mak Shu Lun2
1Department of Construction and Quality Management, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Homantin Kowloon, Hong Kong, SAR 999077, China. s1285609@live.hkmu.edu.hk.
Scientific Reports
|August 20, 2024
Summary
Optimizing municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration with air staging and flue gas recirculation (FGR) significantly reduced nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. Introducing sludge also improved combustion and lowered NOx, supporting sustainable waste management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Combustion Science
Background:
- Rising municipal solid waste (MSW) generation necessitates efficient and environmentally sound disposal methods.
- Traditional landfilling poses environmental risks and land use challenges.
- Waste incineration offers resource recovery but generates harmful nitrogen oxides (NOx).
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize denitrification technologies for MSW incineration.
- To reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from waste incineration.
- To enhance incinerator efficiency and stability through process optimization.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations were employed to optimize air staging, flue gas recirculation (FGR), and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR).
- Air distribution ratios and FGR percentages were systematically varied.
- The impact of different sludge mixing ratios on combustion temperature and NOx emissions was investigated.
Main Results:
- Optimizing air distribution reduced initial NOx generation by 8.39%.
- Introducing 20% FGR as secondary air decreased NOx by 23.54% and increased boiler efficiency to 83.78%.
- A sludge mixing ratio between 3-13% optimized combustion, with 7% being most effective for balancing temperature and NOx reduction.
Conclusions:
- Air staging and FGR are effective strategies for reducing NOx emissions in MSW incineration.
- Sludge co-firing presents a viable method for enhancing combustion control and mitigating NOx.
- These optimized techniques contribute to sustainable waste incineration technology development.
