Work

Refuse-Derived Fuel with the Addition of Peanut Shells: An Evaluation Using a Decision-Making Support Algorithm

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Brazil has made progress in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) management through national legislation focused on integrated waste handling. However, challenges persist, particularly regarding MSW overproduction. A sustainable alternative is Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF), generated from MSW with or without biomass addition. To be viable for combustion, RDF must meet established energy and environmental quality standards. In this context, a mathematical model based on fuzzy logic was developed to classify RDF quality and support decision-making. Five RDF samples were tested, evaluating their Lower Heating Value (LHV), chlorine, and mercury contents using calorimetry, atomic absorption, and X-ray fluorescence. Results indicate that RDF produced solely from MSW tends to have inadequate LHV, necessitating drying pretreatment. Even with the addition of peanut shells, the highest classification achieved was “Regular”, suggesting limited suitability for combustion in furnaces or boilers without pretreatment. Since the general composition of MSW in Brazil is consistent with the characteristics analyzed, RDF may remain unviable for energy recovery under similar conditions. Economic feasibility studies on drying are recommended, especially in urban centers with limited landfill space.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en18102429

Authors: Natália Dadario, Mário Mollo Neto, Felipe André dos Santos, Luís Roberto Almeida Gabriel Filho, Camila Pires Cremasco

Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (Unesp)

Language: English

Topic: Municipal Solid Waste Management

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137