Utilization of Sludge for Clean Energy Production and Biodegradable Plastics

Abstract

Introduction: The disposal of bio solid waste through landfilling imposes a financial burden on governments due to the large quantities generated and the associated operational costs, including transportation. This waste poses environmental and public health risks, emitting carbon dioxide and methane. Furthermore, landfilling renders soil unsuitable for agriculture, while leachate can contaminate groundwater. Polluted waters may seep into nearby bodies, harming aquatic life. Our research investigates treatment methods for this waste and the utilization of its byproducts to generate clean energy and produce biodegradable plastics. Objectives: Our research explores methods to mitigate the environmental impact of sludge on human, animal, and plant health. We investigate clean energy generation from sludge and its byproducts through various chemical processes and assess the feasibility of using the remaining solid mass for biodegradable plastics while enhancing efficiency. Methodology: We focused on the significant challenges faced by the government in waste management, identified as a major issue through extensive investigation. These challenges were analyzed to highlight the urgent need for effective and sustainable solutions. Key Findings: The sludge undergoes anaerobic digestion, enhancing the quality of the resulting methane gas, allowing us to utilize it in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) to generate clean electricity without combustion. Additionally, processing the bio solid mass remaining after anaerobic digestion through microbial synthesis produces PHAs (Polyhydroxyalkanoates), enabling the production of biodegradable plastics. The remaining sludge can also serve as fertilizer for agricultural lands without harming the soil. Conclusions: This facility conducts sludge treatment processes to reduce environmental impact while generating the clean energy required for operations. It also replaces non-biodegradable plastics with biodegradable alternatives from its outputs, reducing sludge transportation costs and improving health outcomes for humans, animals, and plants.