Andrew Porteous

The acid hydrolysis of cellulose in refuse in a continuous reactor

Abstract A continuous reactor has successfully been designed, constructed and operated for the acid hydrolysis of cellulose in waste. The kinetics of pure cellulose (filter paper) hydrolysis have been investigated at the following reaction conditions: temperature, 200–240°C: acid concentration, 0.5–1.5% H2SO4: and residence time, 16–36 s. The results are reported, and compared with predicted values from a kinetic model. Kinetic parameters derived by other researchers are also evaluated. The results of the fermentation of the hydrolysate are included in this paper.

An assessment of energy recovery methods applicable to domestic refuse disposal

Abstract Any recycled material for re-use must be competitive in both quality and cost when compared with virgin raw materials. In the case of domestic refuse these two constraints mean that direct recycling for materials re-use is very restricted and indirect uses are sought instead. One major area of indirect recycling is energy recovery. This paper presents economic analyses performed on a net energy output basis for incineration for both heat and electrical energy production and also for gas production by pyrolysis. Acid hydrolysis of refuse for the production of ethyl alcohol or protein is also presented and analysed in detail since by this means finite oil reserves are conserved. An economic case is made for further work in this area as it is shown to be the only refuse recycling process with the potential to accomplish both refuse disposal and energy recovery at costs substantially less than straight incineration.

DISTANCE TEACHING OF ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING COURSES AT THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

SUMMARY In environmental engineering curricula, pollution abatement technologies are best taught taking a holistic approach to the environment, since the transfer of pollutants from one medium to another will not eliminate the problem. This paper describes two integrated distance-learning environmental engineering degree courses offered by the environmental engineering group of the Open University in the UK. Distance learning is reputed to be the most cost-effective way of acquiring knowledge and is an especially attractive continuing education tool for working professionals. This is exemplified by the number of distance-learning courses now offered by a variety of establishments covering a whole multitude of subjects.