Prediction of Heating Value of Waste and Its Importance for Conceptual Development of New Waste-to-Energy Plants

Abstract

The article deals with the prediction of lower heating value (LHV) of residual municipal solid waste (MSW). LHV indicates the energy potential contained in the waste, which can be later effectively utilized during its thermal treatment, therefore it also affects the economy of a waste-to-energy plant. Heating value of MSW varies according to location and time. It is influenced by socio-economic factors, citizens’ standard of living or the overall effectiveness of waste management. Over time, it changes due to the development of these parameters. Its prediction is crucial for the design of the key equipment parts of a waste-to-energy plant (e.g. specification of operating range for the furnace) and significantly influences the plant economy. Concurrently, average heating value reported for each plant is influenced by the area, from which the waste is collected. Therefore, a concept of a new comprehensive tool which creates a predictive model based on data from various sources is introduced. These are the results of waste composition analysis carried out in different typologically selected locations and times, LHV reported at several existing plants and available waste management statistics at regional level. These sources are further discussed in the paper through examples.