Three-Stage Reactor Design to Convert MSW to Methanol

Implementation of decentralized waste management requires quick and energy positive modes of waste reduction. Syngas conversion provides quick volume reduction and energy-rich gas. However, lack of infrastructure for the use of syngas at small scale makes this route less attractive. Conversion of syngas to locally usable methane and methanol, enabling on source application of energy, is an easy solution. We propose a three-stage reactor for the conversion of MSW, surplus agro-residue to methanol. Gasification, biomethanation, and methane fermentation to methanol represent the three stages of the process. S&T for the conversion of MSW, surplus agro-residue to syngas are in place. Therefore, this paper discusses the remaining two stages of the reactor, i.e., biomethanation via solid-state fermenter and methane fermentation to methanol via hanging rope reactor and its potential in decentralized production of a drop-in fuel, methanol from MSW rejects.