Waste-to-energy: a study applied in a manufacturing industry

Resumo

The aim of this article is to analyze the energy recovery potential from flour-based waste generated in the production process of a manufacturing industry, to promote circular economy and energy sustainability. The study addresses the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (affordable and clean energy), 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and 13 (climate action). The methodology consisted of the collection, preparation, thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA), and calorific value estimation of the waste samples. As a result, the useful calorific value (UCV) was estimated at 3,300,600.0 kJ per month, equivalent to commercial firewood. In conclusion, the flour-based waste produced by the analyzed industry exhibits highly favorable characteristics for use as fuel (low moisture content, high organic and volatile material content).