Pelletization properties of refuse-derived fuel - Effects of particle size and moisture content

摘要

The energy-contained fraction of the municipal solid waste (MSW) is called refuse-derived fuel (RDF). RDF has a diverse blend of various materials and thus its physical properties and chemical composition are not predictable. Pelletization is one way to reduce the variability of RDF for applications like combustion. In this research, a typical RDF sample was constructed by blending four components of paper, plastic, wood and household organics. The entire blend was subjected to size reduction, drying and wetting. The influence of particles passed through 2, 4 and 6-mm grinder screen size and moisture contents 15, 20, 25 and 30% w.b. on the durability and density of pellets was investigated. The 4-mm RDF sample consumed higher energy and produced pellets with a lower durability than pellets from larger particles. The 6-mm grinder screen produced large pieces of paper and plastics that reduced the free flow of the blend into the pellet die. The RDF sample with an initial moisture content of 20% consumed the lowest pelletization energy. The force vs. deformation curve for compaction of the material to form pellets exhibited rigid material characteristics.