Alternative Refuse Derived Fuels: International Experience and Application Prospects in the Russian Federation

The article discusses the current problem of involving municipal solid waste in the energy balance through the production of alternative fuel (RDF – Refuse Derived Fuel). It analyzes the foreign experience of industrial application of RDF, primarily in the cement industry, as the most technologically prepared for its use. The article describes the technology of RDF production, quality and classification criteria, as well as environmental and technical requirements for its combustion. It also provides an overview of the development of RDF production abroad. It is shown that for countries with low-quality raw materials and high requirements for production stability (including Russia), RDF gasification with the supply of synthesis gas to the calcinator is a more promising strategy than attempts to adapt furnaces for direct combustion of low-grade fuel. Special attention is paid to the analysis of factors affecting the development of the RDF industry in Russia, taking into account the current structure of the fuel and energy complex and the state of the recycling system.