Generation, characterization and reuse of solid wastes from a biodiesel production plant. (March 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oliveira, Fernando Jorge Santos; Santana, Daniele dos Santos; Costa, Simone Soraya Brito; Oliveira, Lenise Diniz; Liduino, Vitor Silva; Servulo, Eliana Flávia Camporese
• Is Part Of: Waste management. Volume 61(2017)
• Page Start: 87
• Page End: 95
• Publication Date: 2017-03
• Subjects: Biodiesel -- Solid waste generation -- Waste characterization -- Hazardous waste reuse; Hazardous wastes -- Periodicals; Refuse and refuse disposal -- Periodicals; 363.728
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2016.11.035
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0956-053X

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Highlights: The biodiesel production plant studied generates around 30 types of solid wastes. Biodiesel plant generates corrosive, inflammable, toxic and/or reactive solid wastes. The most important residue of the process was the spent filter material. The spent filter material could be used in the production of ceramic bricks. No negative impact is anticipated from the use of filter material on the bricks. Abstract: The aim of this study was to identify and characterize industrial solid wastes generated by a biodiesel production plant in Brazil, as well as to present strategies for the management of these materials. This plant produces every year around 100, 000 tons of biodiesel from vegetable oils and animal fats. The methodology of the study included technical visits, interviews with the operational and environmental management staff as well as analysis of documents, reports and computerized data systems. An approach to reduce the generation of hazardous waste was investigated. It was take into account the amount of raw material that was processed, reduction of landfill disposal, and the maximization of the their recycling and reuse. The study also identified the sources of waste generation and accordingly prepared an evaluation matrix to determine the types of waste with the higher potential for minimization. The most important residue of the process was the filter material impregnated with oil and biodiesel, requiring, therefore, measures for its minimization. The use of these residues in the production of ceramic artefacts (light bricks) was considered to be very promising, since no significant effect on the physico-chemical and mechanical properties of the artefacts produced was observed. Phytotoxicity test using seeds of Lactuva sativa (lettuce), Brassica juncea (mustard), Abelmoschus esculentus (okra), Chrysanthemum leucanthemum (daisy), Dendranthema grandiflorum (chrysanthemum) and Allium porrum (leek) were carried out. The results clearly show incorporation of the waste material into bricks did not influence relative germination and relative root elongation in comparison to control tests.