Journal Facts

Journal
Journal of Environmental Systems
ISSN
0047-2433 (print) 1541-3802 (electronic)
Volume
6
Issue
4
Date
1/1/1976

Article Facts

Title
Solid Waste Incineration and Energy Recovery in Hospitals
DOI
10.2190/DB3U-PNNH-M1TX-D9X1
Authors
  • Leo T. Smith
  • Richard A. Matula
  • Fu-Kang Tsou
Pages
303-320
Online Date
05/09/2002

Article Links

Solid Waste Incineration and Energy Recovery in Hospitals

Leo T. Smith
Richard A. Matula
Fu-Kang Tsou

DOI: 10.2190/DB3U-PNNH-M1TX-D9X1

Abstract

Small-scale, on-site incineration is examined as one practical method for disposing of hospital solid waste. On-site incineration-energy recovery systems are reviewed and potential annual savings of conventional fuel costs are computed as a function of bed capacity and fuel costs. Potential savings in a 500 bed hospital, for example, are found to range from 19,000 to 57,000 dollars per year for a fuel price range of one to three dollars per million Btu. A market survey of 492 hospitals in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware indicates a strong potential interest in on-site incineration-energy recovery systems. Extrapolation of the survey results to the northeast and middle atlantic regions shows a potential market of 500 to 600 small-scale units. Potential blockages to the hospital market, such as particulate emissions and auxiliary fuel requirements, are discussed.

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