Distillery waste management in line with the concept of circular economy

Abstract

Abstract The paper presents physico-chemical characteristic of distillery residue and ashes after its calcination at 650 and 850°C, that may become a potential energy source due to a relatively high heat of combustion and low content of sulphur and moisture. The chemical composition of the obtained ash as well as fresh distillery residue determines its further use for fertilising purposes. Adducing the legislative regulations none of the analysed key heavy metal exceeds norms allowable in the regulation referring to organic and organo-mineral fertilisers. Proposed solution can be considered as waste minimization technology with energy recovery by rational recycling of nutrients. Such an application will exert an additional positive influence on the circular economy potential.