Grant: Applied Research Tools and Instruments Grants

Aerobic Bioreactor Landfill (ABL) technology accelerates waste decomposition, eliminates methane production, reduces toxicity of leachate (via recirculation of leachate) and significantly lowers the long-term post-closure financial burden in a cost-effective manner. Taken together these provide a potential sustainable solution to mitigating climate change and current waste management practices in Ontario. Research at Seneca has begun to investigate factors to optimize management of landfill sites containing organic wastes using ABL technology. Tests such as Respiration Activity (AT4) & Gas Forming Potential (GBP21) must be conducted on Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) samples to determine optimization procedures for conversion to ABLs. A respirometer and associated components as well as a hammer mill grinder are required to conduct these tests. The requested equipment has never been obtained by the department or college, hence, the request for funds to purchase it. Over the past four years several students have undertaken research projects that study the parameters critical for optimization of the ABL technology in Ontario. The availability of this equipment will expand the scope of collaborative, industry driven applied research projects related to the optimization of ABL technology, conversion of organic waste to produce bioenergy and environmental remediation projects in Ontario. It is envisioned that future collaborative applied research projects would involve local and regional municipalities, provincial government, environmental consulting and services companies, bioenergy as well as biocomposting companies.