Conception of a Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) incineration plant and its environmental benefit

Abstract

Since landfill ban was realised in July 2009 in Germany, wastes that have a high and middle calorific value must be incinerated. Fossil fuels like oil and coal for the generation of electricity and/or heat can be substituted, so that approximately 4 million tons of CO2 could be avoided. Waste incineration is a possible partial solution for avoiding worst impacts of climate change. This paper explores the concept of an incineration plant for waste with a reference calorific value of 15,000 kJ/kg. The plant layout, energy usage, opportunities to reduce CO2 emissions and Germany’s contribution to climate change are discussed.