Sewage sludge - the new challenge

In the future, the agricultural disposal of sewage sludge on fields will be prohibited throughout the EU. 

The anticipated halt to using sewage sludge in agriculture and the prohibition of the dumping of sewage sludge under the technical directive covering domestic waste is aimed at completely removing the contaminant that is sewage sludge from the economic cycle. In addition to municipal sewage sludges, this also applies to residues from waste water purification, biogenic sludges, residual sludges and liquid waste from industrial processes. In all, this represents an extremely complex disposal challenge for local authorities, industry and disposal companies.

Economically and environmentally, thermal utilisation - incineration - is the only appropriate way of utilising sewage sludges and other problematic biomasses.

INTEC possesses the experience and the technologies for the innovative thermal treatment, disposal and economic use of biogenic, contaminated sludges and residues.

The innovative disposal and utilisation concept is based on a combination of the contact drying technology with INTEC solid fuel firing plants and process heat generation plants.

During the process, the complete plant that results from this combination does not release any environmentally harmful substances into the air or soil.

It is not necessary to purchase any energy or fuel in order to dry the sludges and wet residues, or for their incineration. The energy released by the incineration is used to generate process heat for the drying process. In addition, the optional partial generation of electricity enables electricity costs to be further reduced.

The contact dryer is a leading technology for drying, hygienising and increasing the calorific value of domestic and industrial sewage sludges. The contact drying therefore complements the INTEC solid fuel firing methods.