Authors: Shrinivas Lokare a, Andrew Kramer a, Bryan Tomsula b
a. SunGas Renewables, Inc
b. CPFD Software
Source: This paper was published in the May 2025 issue of Decarbonisation Technology.
Abstract: As the world confronts growing energy demands through the first quarter of the 21st century, the shift from traditional fuels to renewable and cleaner fuels continues to grow. These renewable fuels can help companies meet their carbon reduction obligations and comply with specific government requirements. Solid feed gasification is a proven and established process that can be a major component in expanding the production of these renewable fuels and presents a viable option for conversion of renewable feedstocks into fuels and chemicals at scale (see Figure 1). Biomass residues and municipal solid waste (MSW) feedstocks are two abundant feedstocks that can produce alternatives to conventional fuels. Biomass, comprising organic materials such as agricultural residues, energy crops, and forestry residues, offers a renewable and abundant source of energy. MSW consists of non-recyclable organic waste, such as food scraps, low-grade plastic, and garden waste. However, MSW faces challenges like contamination and the need for sorting and cleaning. Sourcing and processing MSW is further complicated by inconsistent segregation, high transportation costs, and limited infrastructure for advanced waste treatment. Although advanced technologies are being developed and put into practice to improve MSW quality and conversion efficiency, these difficulties adversely impact project feasibility as feedstock cost is directly proportional to the extent of pretreatment it requires before feeding it to the gasifiers.