Operation of a Downdraft Gasifier Fueled with Source-Separated Solid Waste

THE SOLID WASTE PROBLEM The disposal of solid waste is a critical problem faced by most communities. It is also costly in terms of capital and energy resources. In 1971, 109 million metric tons of solid waste were collected in the United States at a total cost of $2.64 billion for collection and disposal. By 1985, this quantity is expected to increase to between 150 and 200 metric tons per year with an annual cost between $4.02 to $5.06 billion.( 1 ). Although the composition of municipal solid waste varies greatly both geographically and by season, an analysis of data from many cities in the United States shows a remarkable similarity. Typically, municipal solid waste in the United States contains about 40 percent combustible material by weight. Although resource recovery and recycling are receiving considerable attention today, most solid waste is still disposed of in a sanitary landfill. Even though it is