| dc.description.abstract | This study addresses two major areas. First. existing data is used to determine the tonnage, composition, energy content, and distribution of manure resources in the U.S. This data is then analysed with respect to the manure resource's economic utility. Secondly, preliminary results for a new combustor design, constructed for this project, are presented.
The survey on manure resources indicates a huge tonnage of manure produced each day. However, costs associated with collection, transportation, and storage are quite high. These costs are compounded by low energy content for the fuel itself. From an economic standpoint, manure to energy conversion is marginal at present. Manure's use in the future as an energy alternative is highly dependent on the cost of other fuels in the nation's energy mix.
The combustor design is somewhat similar to that used in recovery boilers in that it uses a free fall method for combusting manure while hot combustion gases flow upward through it. The ash is collected at the base of the combustor and continuously removed.
Preliminary results indicate that feedlot manure is difficult to burn in this configuration when compared with fine sawdust. Explanations for these observed differences are presented. Finally, proposals for additional study of this combustor configuration are provided. | en |
