Development of a MSW gasification model for flexible integration into a MFA-LCA framework

Abstract

This paper presents the development of a comprehensive gasification module designed to be integrated in a MFA-LCA framework. From existing gasification models present in the literature, the most appropriate modelling strategy is selected and implemented into the module. This module needs to be able to capture the influence of input parameters, such as gasification reactor type, oxidizing agent, feedstock composition and operating conditions on the process outputs, including syngas yield, its composition and LHV, as well as tar and char contents. A typical gasification process is usually modelled in four steps: drying, pyrolysis, oxidation and reduction. Models representing each of these steps are presented in this paper. Since the type of gasification reactor is taken into account in the module, models for downdraft moving bed and bubbling fluidized bed reactor are also reviewed. The gasification module will be integrated into a MFA framework (VMR-Sys), which enables calculation of relevant gasifier feedstock parameters, such as moisture content, composition, properties and particle size distribution. Outputs from the module will also include elemental compositions obtained from VMR-Sys calculations. Finally, all outputs from the module will be used to build LCA-inventory data.