Project Title: Siloxane removal from LFG using DBD-plasma: A feasibility study for TRSWA
Funded By: Environmental research and Education Foundation (EREF)
PI: Dr. Shamia Hoque
Co-PIs: Dr. Tanvir Farouk; Dr. Nicole Berge
Dr. Berge is part of a team led by Dr. Shamia Hoque that aims to evaluate the feasibility of using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD)- non-thermal plasma (NTP) assisted siloxane removal from landfill gas at the Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority (TRSWA). Siloxanes or volatile methyl siloxanes are present in trace amounts in landfill gas (LFG). During LFG combustion, these compounds are converted into silicates and micro-crystalline quartz, which leave hard deposits on engine parts leading to abrasion and impact damage and inefficient heat conduction, ultimately resulting in increased operation and maintenance costs and reduced engine life. This project focuses on conducting work to tailor the NTP technology to result in optimal removal of siloxane from TRSWA LFG, while enhancing conversion of components of the gas to useful products of economic value.