Metaheuristic optimizing energy recovery from plastic waste in a gasification-based system for waste conversion and management

In an era where sustainable waste management and clean energy production are paramount, this study presents an innovative integration of plastic waste gasification with solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology, optimized through metaheuristic particle swarm optimization (PSO). The research explores the conversion of polypropylene (PP) waste into syngas via gasification, which is then utilized as a fuel for SOFCs to generate electricity. The optimization process focuses on maximizing power and heating outputs while minimizing carbon dioxide emissions. The study's findings demonstrate the potential of integrating gasification and SOFC technologies to create a sustainable energy system that addresses the challenges of plastic waste. Key findings from the metaheuristic PSO multi-objective optimization reveal that optimal power production, approximately 360 kW, is achieved at temperatures exceeding 1140 K, irrespective of the steam/PP waste ratio. Heating production peaks at 1000 kW with temperatures above 1120 K and utilization factors over 0.765, while the minimum heating output is 700 kW. Emission analysis indicates a significant reduction in carbon dioxide emissions with increased temperatures and utilization factors, achieving a minimum of 700 kg/MWh at temperatures above 1120 K. The study's results demonstrate the effectiveness of the PSO optimization in fine-tuning the operational parameters of the integrated system, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Power production of 366.37 kW, a significant heating rate of 995.20 g/s, and emissions of 714.06 kg/MWh are the optimum performances. The research provides valuable insights into the potential of plastic waste-to-energy technologies as sustainable solutions for energy production and waste management.