Modeling of a Plasma-Based Waste Gasification System for Solid Waste Generated Onboard of Typical Cruiser Vessels Used as a Feedstock

Abstract

In this paper, a model for a single stage plasma gasification system for marine vessels characterized by significant waste production is proposed. The main objective of the model is to investigate the effects of different feedstock compositions on key parameters, such as electrical power produced and heat recovered. The different types of waste generated onboard are described along with their environmental impacts. Specific attention is given to solid wastes, sewage sludge and plastic wastes as potential feedstock. Their average generation, proximate and ultimate analysis are defined, as input to the process model. The process assumptions used in the simulation model are illustrated. The system model is divided into five units: the pre-treatment unit; the gasification unit; the syngas cleaning unit; the energy conversion unit; and the heat recovery unit. Four operational scenarios are investigated to consider several variations of composition of the main feedstock. From the results of the simulations, the system model shows good feedstock flexibility, and the possibility of operating in net electricity gain conditions. The cold gas efficiency of the process is also assessed and its maximum value is obtained for the highest concentrations of sewage sludge (33.3%) and plastic (16.7%). Other parameters investigated are the combustion temperature, sorbent consumption in the cleaning process, feedstock and syngas lower heating value LHV.