This focus area aims to analyzeÌýbiomass waste flow in UK cement plants, assess its alternative uses, and compareÌýthe environmental impacts of current and potential waste biomass applications.
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Background of this research
Substitution of fossil fuels by renewable biomass is a key strategy forÌýdecreasing emissions of greenhouse gasesÌý(GHG)Ìýfrom energy-intensive processes, including cement manufacture. In a system-wide context,ÌýwithÌýcompeting demand from other sectors,Ìýthe supply and benefitsÌýof biomass energyÌýareÌýbothÌýuncertain. Characterisation ofÌýquantities and qualities ofÌýdifferent types ofÌýbiomass waste at the point of generation rather than at the point of use canÌýhelpÌýdirectÌýthem to the most beneficial use,Ìýfor the reduction of GHG emissions and other negative environmental impacts.
Objectives for this research
(a) A Material Flow Analysis of biomass waste in U.K cement plants
(b) Assessment of alternative uses of waste biomass
(c) Comparison of the environmental impact of waste biomass currently used in U.K cement plants and their alternative uses