Condensation Cleaning and Simplification of CO2 Capture through Nitrogen-free Incineration of Municipal Solid Waste

Abstract

The paper considers the technology of condensation cleaning of flue gases during the combustion of municipal solid waste using pure oxygen. This combination allows to overcome the limitations of traditional combustion schemes in air, in which a high proportion of nitrogen reduces the partial pressure of water vapour, limiting the potential for condensation and purification. Using modelling in the Aspen HYSYS environment, a study was conducted on the effect of the oxidizer composition and waste moisture on the condensation efficiency and the composition of the purified flow. It was shown that the replacement of air with oxygen leads to a noticeable increase in the partial pressure of water vapour, which initiates condensation at higher temperatures and increases the volume of condensate. This creates favourable conditions for the simultaneous removal of a number of pollutants, as well as obtaining an exhaust with an increased CO2 content. Design and operational aspects of the technology implementation are discussed, including the effect of cooling temperature, heat recovery capabilities and prospects for application near cold water bodies. This integrated approach not only simplifies the flue gas cleaning system, reducing capital and operational costs, but also positions waste incineration as a carbon-negative technology when combined with carbon capture, utilization, and storage, offering a sustainable pathway for waste management and industrial decarbonization.