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Characterization of municipal solid waste based on seasonal variations, source and socio-economic aspects

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Abstract

Municipal solid waste (MSW) generation and characterization are the basic inputs for waste handling and treatment systems design. In present research, we performed waste characterization investigations in Visakhapatnam (India), using a waste characterization methodology by integrating two standard sampling and characterization approaches. The characterization methodology was designed by combining seasonal variations, source, and socio-economic stratifications. Source-based sampling was performed at household(s), dumpster(s), transfer station, and landfill. Socio-economic-based sampling was performed based on the zone classification of the city. Three sampling campaigns were conducted to identify the waste composition based on seasonal variations. Studies aimed to perform stratified characterization of waste and assess chemical characteristics of the mixed waste fractions to evaluate waste-to-energy potential. Results indicate that the amount of MSW generated in the city is 1250±100 tons/day, with a generation rate of 0.65 kg/capita/day. Based on source stratification, organic matter (45.5% ± 6.5%) is a major component followed by inert waste. The paper, plastic, and textile components amount to 25% of overall waste. From seasonal studies, organic matter was higher in pre-monsoon (42%) compared to winter (39%). The moisture content of MSW varied between 30% and 35% and volatile solids between 39% and 43%. The calorific value was determined to be between 5680 – 7110 kJ/kg. Outlined the limitations and potential errors associated with sampling and waste characterization. Biochemical and thermal conversion treatment alternatives for processing, treatment, and handling were discussed. The findings of this research would assist regulatory bodies and city councils to formulate policy directives on waste sampling, characterization, segregation, education, and awareness campaigns.

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Acknowledgements

The first author is thankful to Ministry of Education, Government of India, and Australian Government (CIPRS Scholarship) for providing scholarship. Authors extend their gratitude to Sri. Hari Narayana, Commissioner and Dr. Hemanth, Chief Medical Officer of Health, Visakhapatnam for according permission to conduct waste characterization studies. Acknowledgements to MVGR college of Engineering (Autonomous) management and Principal Dr KVL Raju. Acknowledgements to Rajesh Kola, Technical Assistant and Sandeep Prasad for supporting all throughout the laboratory testing and analysis.

Funding

The project was financially supported (Code: SRIC/TOUR/AIR/17–18/3) by the Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy (SRIC), IIT Kharagpur, India for performing the field studies at Visakhapatnam.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Environmental Engineering and Management, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal, 721302, India

    Venkata Ravi Sankar Cheela, Sudha Goel & Brajesh Dubey

  2. Sustainable Engineering Group, Curtin University, Perth, WA, 6102, Australia

    Venkata Ravi Sankar Cheela & Michele John

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  1. Venkata Ravi Sankar Cheela
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Contributions

Venkata Ravi Sankar Cheela: conceptualization, methodology, investigation, resources, formal analysis, writing–original draft. Sudha Goel: methodology, writing–review and editing, supervision. Michele John: writing–review and editing, supervision. Brajesh Dubey: conceptualization, methodology, project administration; resources, writing–review and editing, supervision.

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Correspondence to Brajesh Dubey.

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Cheela, V.R.S., Goel, S., John, M. et al. Characterization of municipal solid waste based on seasonal variations, source and socio-economic aspects. Waste Dispos. Sustain. Energy 3, 275–288 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42768-021-00084-x

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