Adoption and Recycling Plan of RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel): April 1997

Adoption and Recycling Plan of RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel): April 1997

Background and Purpose
Proper disposal and recycling of waste are critical challenges in environmental protection. RDF (Refuse Derived Fuel) technology is particularly noteworthy as an effective method for utilizing combustible waste. RDF is produced by sorting, crushing, and solidifying waste, and is used as an alternative fuel to coal. The adoption and recycling plan of RDF significantly contribute to energy conservation and waste disposal efficiency.

Initiatives by Tosoh Corporation
Tosoh Corporation plans to adopt RDF as fuel for cement production at its Nanyo Plant in Nanyo City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and reuse the incineration ash as raw material for cement. This initiative is in response to Nanyo City's promotion of RDF as part of its recycling project, and will be implemented from April 1999, when the city's waste treatment facility is completed.

Production and Characteristics of RDF
The production process of RDF is as follows:

1. **Sorting**:
Non-combustible and foreign materials are removed from the waste, and highly combustible materials are selected.

2. **Crushing**:
The selected waste is finely crushed to ensure uniform particle size.

3. **Solidification**:
The crushed waste is heated, compressed, and molded into solid fuel.

RDF is characterized by its long-term storability and easy handling. Additionally, compared to conventional incineration, RDF has a higher calorific value and better energy efficiency.

Recycling Plan in Cement Production
Tosoh's plan involves using RDF as fuel for cement production and reusing the incineration ash as raw material for cement. This process reduces the final disposal volume of waste and promotes the effective use of resources. Specifically, the benefits include:

1. **Improved Energy Efficiency**:
Utilizing RDF's high calorific value efficiently supplies the energy required for cement production.

2. **Reduction of Waste Volume**:
RDF processing reduces the volume of waste, easing the burden on final disposal sites.

3. **Effective Use of Resources**:
Reusing incineration ash as raw material for cement converts waste into valuable material.

Future Challenges and Prospects
Several challenges must be addressed to popularize RDF technology. First, the removal of foreign materials during the sorting and crushing stages is crucial. Additionally, technological development is necessary to maintain consistent RDF quality. Efforts to reduce production costs and expand the market are also required.

If Tosoh's initiative succeeds, RDF technology could spread to other regions and industries, contributing to more efficient waste disposal and energy supply. With support from the government and local authorities, ongoing improvements and the promotion of this technology can lead to significant strides towards a sustainable society.

Thus, the adoption and recycling plan of RDF is an important initiative that significantly contributes to environmental protection and the effective use of resources. Tosoh's specific case serves as a model for other companies and municipalities.