The EnQuest system is based on
Steam Reformation — the chemical breakdown of materials under high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment. The steam reformation process converts organic (carbonaceous) materials into a hydrogen-rich syngas that is very similar to natural gas and can be used as a process gas, in power generation (fuel cells, turbines and boilers) and converted into useful carbon-based products
When municipal solid waste is used as the input, the EnQuest system is capable of achieving a volume reduction of approximately 98% and a mass reduction equal to, or greater than, 90%. Solid residuals from the process include metals, which are separated and recycled, and other inorganics like minerals, clay and glass, which are non-toxic and inert. Everything else is converted into syngas, a valuable energy resource.
Steam reformation should be clearly distinguished from other technologies.
It is not:
- Incineration, which relies on large amounts of oxygen, emits NOx, SOx, dioxins, furans and other pollutants (which can be "scrubbed" - at a price) and, given its low useful energy conversion, will produce a relatively high carbon dioxide-to-energy quotient. Incineration also leaves significant quantities of toxic residue and ash;
- Pyrolysis, which takes place in an oxygen-starved environment at lower temperatures, is the basis of almost all existing gasification schemes. Pyrolysis can leave up to 30% of input as 'pyrochar' - an oily, toxic residue that is difficult to reclaim for useful products;
- Plasma reformation, which is the application of ultra high temperatures (up to 5000°F), and consequently requires significant external electrical energy.
Municipalities need not reduce their recycling efforts. The simplicity of the EnQuest system can reduce the need for multiple disposal vehicles covering the same routes, while greatly diminishing the volume of waste going to landfills.
