Energy Recovery from Waste

Energy recovery is highly dependent on the composition and characteristics of the waste, the techniques available, and the cost-benefit ratio. In this sense, through a case study strategy and analysis of two cases, end-of-life tyres (ELTs) and industrial textile waste, this dissertation aims to demonstrate the possibility of energy recovery from waste and the associated environmental and economic benefits. The energy recovery of ELTs allows for simultaneous recycling, energy recovery and waste disposal. In addition, ELTs have a calorific value almost equivalent to fossil fuels, with lower impacts and low cost, making them an ideal substitute in energy-intensive processes. As for industrial textile waste, its recovery for the production of thermal energy to be used in production processes allows for the optimisation of the production cycle, the use of energy resources, the avoidance of landfill costs and the purchase of fossil fuels, as well as preventing their impacts.