DETERMINATION OF THE CALORIFIC VALUE OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE IN ENUGU, NIGERIA AND ITS POTENTIAL FOR ELECTRICITY GENERATION

Abstract

The work aimed at determination of calorific value of  municipal solid waste in Enugu, Nigeria and its potential for electricity generation. Random truck sampling was used according to American Society of Test and Material (ASTM)  in the collection of samples at Ugwuaji landfill site, Enugu, Nigeria and calorific value was determined using oxygen bomb calorimeter. Enugu has a present  population of 882,178 and the amount of municipal solid waste  generated in Enugu was  estimated to be 420 tonnes daily and this resulted in waste generation rate of   0.48kg/capita/day. The average composition of the municipal solid waste  was 39% putrescible, 11% paper, 21% plastics, 5% textile, and 2% metal, 3% glass and 19% others. The average moisture content Volatile matter content, Ash content and Fixed Carbon Content  of  the waste stream were 38.28%, 47.48%, 2.58% and 13.25% respectively.  The gross calorific value was obtained   as 5655837600kJ/day which is equivalent to 1571066kWh/day .This energy is equivalent to about 2.16% of the total annual Electricity used in Enugu and would result in an annual saving of US$ 560 Thousand in case of utilization, giving an alternative to the unsteady supply of electricity and ensuring a hygienic, clean and aesthetically friendly environment. The results of this research show that energy recovery is a feasible option as part of an integrated solid waste management plan in Enugu, Nigeria. However, it is recommended to perform a detailed economic analysis before making a decision on such option.