sustainable energy Flashcards
What is anaerobic digestion?
A process that duplicates the natural decay process in an oxygen-free environment, composting organic waste to produce methane gas for fuel
Anaerobic digestion is an organic way to create energy from waste.
What is direct waste incineration?
A cleaner technology that has adapted to anti-pollution regulations, creating a variable system for urban areas
Direct waste incineration is one of the methods used to create energy from waste.
What is gasification?
A process that occurs in an oxygen-free or reduced environment, producing rich fuel oil or methane gas
Gasification is another method of generating energy from waste.
What are the environmental benefits of energy obtained from anaerobic digestion, incineration, and gasification?
Reduces loads on landfill but may conflict with recycling objectives
Modern technologies are clean and efficient and can be scaled for different sizes.
What do fuel cells convert into heat and power?
Hydrogen and air
The only byproduct of this process is water.
What are the efficiency and maintenance characteristics of fuel cells?
Around 60% more efficient, little maintenance, no moving parts
Fuel cells can power vehicles and store heat and power in buildings.
What is the lifespan of a fuel cell?
At least 20 years
Fuel cells are known for their reliability and long lifespan.
What does biomass refer to?
Renewable organic fuel energy of recent origin
Biomass is an important source of energy that releases CO2 when burnt.
What are the two types of biomass?
- Woody: forest waste, wood pellets, chips, wood products
- Non-woody: animal waste, biodegradable products, high energy crops, vegetable and animal fat biofuels
Both types of biomass can be used in energy generation.
How are biomass fuels typically utilized in domestic commercial systems?
Burnt in very high temperature boilers linked to hot water and space heating systems
Biomass systems often employ wood pellets, wood chips, or logs.
What is a requirement for biomass fuel storage?
Large storage hoppers for wood-chip fuels
Despite the need for storage, biomass combustion produces nominal ash waste.
How do biomass fuels interact with the carbon cycle?
They work on the carbon cycle and are fully sustainable
This makes biomass a renewable energy source.
