Effect of Binder Adding to the Physical Properties of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Pellets

Utilization of MSW as solid fuel has been developed through the process of gasification and pyrolysis. To improve energy efficiency during combustion, it needs uniformity of form and compaction, therefore MSW is formed in the form of pellets. The purpose of this research was to determine the physical characteristics of MSW pellets with the addition of binder and pellet drying process. Pellets consist of organic material, plastic, paper and leaves which are dried and crushed to reduce size. The material is mixed with the tapioca flour binder content of 0%, 3% and 6% and then compacted in the form of pellets. After the milling process, the pellets are dried with a treatment of 0, 6 and 12 hours to measure physical characteristics, moisture content and caloric value. Physical measurements consist of tests of density, durability and hardness. The developed pellet had a size length of 23.6 - 24 mm and diameter of 7.8-8.2 mm and 1.16-1.36 grams of weight the individual pellet. From the results of measurements and observations, pellets with 0% binder adding and 12-hours of drying can produce better quality, in the absence of fungal contamination and have a higher caloric value. MSW pellets from that process have achieved European pellet standards for physical properties, moisture content and caloric value.