Solid Waste Management and Energy Technology

Research Activities

Currently, under the Solid Waste Management and Energy Technology program following research activities are being conducted:

1. Plastic Waste Turned into Fuel and Construction Materials
This project explores sustainable pathways to process plastic waste via thermochemical conversion processes. The pyrolysis process is employed to produce fuel from plastic, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Concurrently, non-fuel residues are analyzed for application in construction products like paver blocks and tiles. The project addresses pollution of the environment and promotes circular economy principles. Laboratory-scale technologies are designed to maximize yield, manage emissions, and qualify for quality. The project enables scalable waste-to-resource technologies for application in Nepal's urban environment.

2. Incineration Feasibility Study of Landfill Waste
This feasibility study analyses the technical and environmental viability of incinerating mixed municipal solid waste of sample landfill sites. Key parameters such as calorific value, moisture percentage, and composition are analyzed to determine combustibility. Emissions, residue properties, and energy recovery potential are analyzed under laboratory conditions. The project identifies challenges and prospects of adopting incineration in Nepal's waste management strategy. Life cycle impacts and control are also considered. The outcomes are anticipated to provide evidence-based waste-to-energy policy.

3. Leachate Treatment by Biochar and Nanomaterials
Low-cost, sustainable options of treating landfill leachate by engineered nanomaterials and biochar are explored herein. Biochar recovered from readily available biomass is chemically treated for its improved adsorption potential. Laboratory test work is performed on large landfill leachate samples for the removal of heavy metals, organics, and nutrients. The study is a comparison of the performance of nano-enabled materials, hybrid systems, and biochar. Green environment safety, regeneration, and scalability are of concern. The work is a contribution to sustainable leachate management according to green technology solution.