Energy From Waste

Experts in Energy from Waste Residues

The ACS team has a wealth of experience in the analytical requirements of Energy from Waste (EfW) sites. Whether a moving gate mass burn facility, gasification site, or small-scale pyrolysis plant covered by SWIP regulations - we have the expertise to address your needs in full.

Our energy from waste plant capabilities extend to the complete analysis and interpretation of results for Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA) and Anti-Pollution Control residues (APCr). We also offer comprehensive support with the requirements detailed in the ESA protocol or SWIP documentation tied to Local Authority and PPC requirements.

Our Energy from Waste Plant Services

Energy from Waste, or Waste to Energy, refers to the process by which non-hazardous, non-recyclable household and commercial waste is converted into usable forms of energy - typically electricity or heat.

If you are an Energy from Waste plant operator, we can provide you with a full range of analytical services carried out in-house at our purpose-built UKAS-accredited laboratory. These include:

Gasification & Pyrolysis

For gasification sites and pyrolysis Waste to Energy plants, we offer the analysis of the following components:

Major Components – carbon dioxide, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, methane, ethane, nitrogen, oxygen.

Hydrocarbons (C2–C7) – ethene, propane, butane, pentane, hexane, benzene, toluene.

Syngas & Tar Sampling

If required, we can arrange site visits to take regular samples of syngas and tar compounds.

Our specialists will take your samples in Tedlar bags to ensure there is no degradation, with analysis taking place within the next 48 hours.

Once this process is complete, we can then calculate the calorific value of the sample.

Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA) Testing

IBA testing reveals the condition of the residual material produced by an incinerator and enables us to monitor the system's overall health.

Without IBA testing, we could not accurately measure potential pollutants in the ashes from burning combustible materials.

Regular IBA testing is key to ensuring safe Energy from Waste operations, helping to:

Ensure hazardous materials don't escape during combustion
Assess any changes in the characteristics of ash over time
Differentiate hazardous & non-hazardous components in a sample
Inform suitable disposal options, depending on sample composition
Detect issues in the system before they become too large or costly

Anti-Pollution Control Residues (APCr) Testing

APCr testing measures the amount of pollutants released into the air, water, and soil around a facility. This is important for any facility that uses Energy from Waste, ensuring that any pollutants released from burning this energy are minimised.

Findings from APCr testing can also reveal insights into where you can make changes to reduce emissions or increase efficiency. Most importantly, regular testing can help keep your facility compliant with local regulations and operating safely.

Benefits of Waste to Energy Testing

Waste to Energy testing offers numerous benefits, enabling you to:

Reduce costs through increased operational efficiency
Efficiently monitor & improve energy production to reduce emissions & environmental impacts
Ensure compliance with governmental regulations & maintain safe, reliable operations

Identify potential health risks associated with certain types of energy production methods
Follow best practices & meet or exceed industry standards
Contribute to a clean & efficient energy landscape

Energy from Waste Regulations

Compliance with current Energy from Waste laws and regulations is paramount.

There are several types of legislation in place to ensure that energy generated from waste is safe, reliable, clean, and efficient. They cover considerations such as:

Use of appropriate fuel sources
Emissions control

Disposal methods
Monitoring systems

At ACS, we have the skills and expertise to prepare, test, and analyse your residue - quickly and accurately. Get in touch to learn more about how our experienced lab technicians and Energy to Waste plant specialists can support your facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is meant by energy from waste?

Energy from Waste, also referred to as Waste to Energy, covers a series of processes designed to convert household and commercial waste into usable energy, such as heat or electricity.

What is APC residue?

APC stands for "Anti-Pollution Control". APC residue, or APCr, are residues left over from Waste to Energy operations. They are usually alkaline (corrosive) and contain high concentrations of metals, such as zinc and lead, as well as soluble salts like chlorides and sulphates.

Why test Incinerator Bottom Ash (IBA)?

IBA is the ash left over after waste has been burnt in an incinerator. It can contain a number of materials, including potential pollutants. Regular IBA testing is crucial to ensuring safe Waste to Energy operations.

ACS Services

Please see below for a list of the services provided by ACS:

Geo-Environmental Consultancy

The ACS Geo-Environmental Consultancy Department has been operating as part of ACS for over 10 years.

On-Site Testing Services

ACS offers a comprehensive range of professional on-site testing, all carried out by our fully trained site technicians.

Aggregates and Soils Testing

From our main laboratory in Poole, Dorset, ACS provide quality testing and material consultancy for the construction and civil engineering industry.

Bituminous Testing

ACS carries out testing on new bituminous binder material and testing on hardened material for physical and chemical properties. Circa pre 1980’s Tar (Carcinogenic effects) was also used as a binder, ACS staff can sample and test materials to assess if Tar was used.