A life cycle assessment and economic analysis of the Scum-to-Biodiesel technology in wastewater treatment plants

Bioresource Technology
Dongyan MuRoger Ruan

Abstract

This study used life cycle assessment and technical economic analysis tools in evaluating a novel Scum-to-Biodiesel technology and compares the technology with scum digestion and combustion processes. The key variables that control environmental and economic performance are identified and discussed. The results show that all impacts examined for the Scum-to-Biodiesel technology are below zero indicating significant environmental benefits could be drawn from it. Of the three technologies examined, the Scum-to-Biodiesel technology has the best environmental performance in fossil fuel depletion, GHG emissions, and eutrophication, whereas combustion has the best performance on acidification. Of all process inputs assessed, process heat, glycerol, and methanol uses had the highest impacts, much more than any other inputs considered. The Scum-to-Biodiesel technology also makes higher revenue than other technologies. The diesel price is a key variable for its economic performance. The research demonstrates the feasibility and benefits in developing Scum-to-Biodiesel technology in wastewater treatment facilities.

References

Apr 29, 2004·Environmental Science & Technology·Hong LiuBruce E Logan
Jul 14, 2011·Environmental Science & Technology·Perry L McCartyJeonghwan Kim
Jul 22, 2011·Environmental Science & Technology·Andres F ClarensLisa M Colosi
Mar 17, 2015·Bioresource Technology·Chong-hao BiRoger Ruan

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Citations

Jun 1, 2016·Bioresource Technology·Huan MaRoger Ruan
May 3, 2021·Environmental Science and Pollution Research International·Xiaochen YaoBao Yu

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