Holistic Analysis of Emissions From a Modular Fast Pyrolysis System for Conversion of Biomass and Mixed Waste
Abstract
Fast pyrolysis of municipal solid waste (MSW) provides an alternative to open burn pits and MSW incinerators, which emit harmful gaseous emissions and particulate matter. Fast pyrolysis converts MSW to a primarily liquid product (i.e., bio-oil), which burns cleaner than solid MSW. To demonstrate the benefits of processing MSW using pyrolysis, we measured emissions from three different burners fueled by pyrolysis bio-oil, char, and gas and compared the results to standards set by the EPA regarding emissions from waste incinerators. Five of the EPA regulated pollutants (dioxins/furans, Cd, Pb, Hg, and HCl) were not observed during testing as they typically depend on feedstock composition (Cd, Pb, Hg, HCl) or are greatly reduced by burning liquid fuels (dioxins/furans). The pyrolysis system also met carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxide, and sulfur dioxide emissions standards at 10.6 ppm, 16.8 ppm, and 2.3 ppm respectively. PM emissions exceeded EPA limits at 60 mg/m3 versus 30 mg/m3. However, PM emissions are easily reduced by using a baghouse filter adjusting the bio-oil burner air-to-fuel ratio. These results clearly demonstrated that pyrolysis can convert MSW to power/heat while also meeting EPA emissions standards without using air pollution control systems.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1088821
Entities
People
- Alex D. Paulsen
- Andrew L. Wagner
- Michael J. Blaise
- Nicholas R. Schwartz
- Paul E. Yelvington