Energy valorization of waste by thermo-chemical processes (pyrolysis, depolymerization, gasification). Return on past developments. An expert view

Summary

Waste-to-energy conversion is a major technical, economic and environmental issue. The various thermochemical conversion techniques that complement incineration, such as pyrolysis and gasification, have been the subject of extensive research and development for many years. However, despite the large number of innovations proposed and pilot plants installed, many facilities have been proven failures, putting the brakes on the development of the sector, despite its significant potential interest. This expert report provides a global history of these past developments. It analyses the technical causes of these successes and failures. It examines 27 thermochemical waste conversion processes (pyrolysis, gasification, depolymerisation). Based on this feedback, the author makes recommendations for the development of future thermochemical waste recovery processes.