Gasification of municipal solid waste: Progress, challenges, and prospects

Sustainable waste management is the core issue of modern societies because of its increasing social and envi-ronmental concerns. Therefore, the scientific community is continuously struggling to develop scientific waste management proposals in order to mitigate the associated health hazards and environmental anxieties. Thermal treatments are viable solutions for waste management, especially for municipal wastes. Among these, gasifica-tion is a preferred technique to envisage the concept of a circular bio-economy by producing biohydrogen rich syngas. In this manuscript, we have critically reviewed various gasification technologies incorporating different feed alternatives, catalysts used, and technology adoption. Individual gasification of municipal solid waste (MSW) has many technical concerns; therefore, feedstock management by mixing with agricultural wastes can be a workable solution that can be opted with various existing gasifiers' designs. However, an economic balance has a stern influence on design strategy. In addition, regional waste disposal regulations and implementation are vital to curbing the MSW management issues practically.

Automated summary

Sustainable waste management is a crucial issue in modern societies, and scientific research aims to develop effective waste management strategies to address health and environmental concerns. Thermal treatments, particularly gasification, offer viable solutions for municipal waste management. This review critically examines different gasification technologies, feed alternatives, catalysts, and technology adoption. Mixed feedstock management, such as combining municipal solid waste with agricultural waste, can be a practical solution, although economic considerations and waste disposal regulations play important roles in design strategy and implementation.