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Published on: February 21, 2017
Optimising integral waste valorisation systems: Towards improved efficiency and resource recovery
Ahmad Furqan Hala1, Petronella Margaretha Slegers1, Argyris Kanellopoulos1
1Operations Research and Logistics, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, Gelderland, the Netherlands.
Abstract:
Waste valorisation provides a strategy to convert currently disposed waste streams into high-value products. However, industrial implementation remains constrained by the need for high operational efficiency. Integral valorisation systems can improve the recovery efficiency by coordinating multiple waste valorisation routes and resource flows within an industrial network. Consequently, designing such systems requires coordinated decisions across various technical and economic dimensions. In this study, we developed and used a network design model to simultaneously optimise decisions related to technology selection, process design, and resource allocation. A case study was defined in collaboration with a large industry consortium encompassing waste stream owners and valorisation technology providers in the Netherlands. The presented results demonstrated the applicability of the model, showing that integrated systems can increase profit by up to three times compared to individual valorisation. Secondary valorisation of side streams improved the utilisation efficiency of waste resources. Sensitivity analyses on market prices and waste availability highlighted the requirement for adaptive strategies to maintain optimal economic returns. The developed frameworks can be used by decision makers to inform optimal waste valorisation strategies and support its industrial transitions to resource-efficient practices.
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