MAINSTREAM ENGINEERING CORP — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N152-097

Description

Mainstream Engineering Corporation (MEC) proposes development of a low-emissions pyrolytic solid-waste remediation system (py-SWRS) for processing mixed solid waste at small base camps. The proposed unit leverages our existing py-SWRS pilot reactor that was developed for greenwaste processing at fixed DOD installations. Pyrolysis produces a liquid fuel that can be stored easily (unlike producer gas from gasifiers) and used as need to provide heat and/or power. Furthermore, the emissions from pyrolysis (and subsequent combustion of pyrolysis oil) are significantly lower than emissions from incinerators or open burn boxes. MEC has demonstrated conversion of mixed waste, simulating waste from small base camps, using our existing 1 ton per day pyrolysis reactor and characterized the product. The proposed effort is to adapt the py-SWRS for preprocessing, drying, and complete conversion of mixed waste with low emissions. The waste preprocessing and pyrolysis systems will be packaged in deployable Tricon containers capable of 1,500 lb/day. Phase I will include component modifications to tailor the current system to the Navy mission requirements, testing with a Navy-defined solid waste feedstock, and design and layout of the Tricon-packaged units. Phase II will culminate in the delivery of a technology demonstrator to the Navy for further testing.