Environment
It makes no sense to trade one management or environmental problem for another. Waste to Energy through the MaxWest gasification system uses little water, leaves residual ash, helps manage a waste problem and produces a much better emissions profile than any combustion generating system.
Air Quality
Because the feedstock for each system is different, air emissions will vary. Ours is a custom system, so testing and engineering to manage air emissions will vary from site to site.
Here's what we can tell you: based on our experience gained from other testing over several years, typical emissions from the MaxWest system will be considered a "minor source" with a favorable profile compared to any combustion generating system.
With regard to greenhouse gas emissions, there is no doubt that the MaxWest system has a great profile:
- Biomass to electric power is considered CO2 neutral
- Electric power from biomass will be entitled to REC credits
- On-site conversion of waste will eliminate GHG emissions from truck transport
- Electric power from waste will displace power otherwise generated from fossil fuels
- On-site system may be used to capture methane at the treatment plant
- Zero methane emission from landfill and land application
In addition, the MaxWest System reduces congestion on crowded roads and the emissions from truck engines such as sulfur and particulates, major components of smog.
Residual Ash
A byproduct of the biomass gasification process, the residual ash is suitable for mixing with cement or asphalt or depositing in a landfill. Automatic extraction of ash residue is accomplished via a live floor system that covers the base of the gas-producer fuel bed. It is anticipated the ash will be land filled, sold or donated.
The feedstock composition of the waste will determine the composition of the ash. A test run is performed for each facility and documented by an independent third party. A disposal or utilization plan will be developed based on the results of the test.
It is important to know that this is a closed system, totally controlled, unlike incineration, so any metals will be in the ash. We plan to mix our ash with cement, fertilizer, asphalt, pavers, or, last resort, landfill.
With regard to metals, whether in air emissions or in the ash residue, we have a designed test protocol to cover both.
Water Use
The typical biomass gasification facility will use a minimal amount of water per day for wash down purposes.