Some barriers to the use of materials recovered from municipal solid waste
Abstract Municipal solid waste (MSW) contains materials which could be put to good use, yet it continues to be discarded, which suggests that it contains little or nothing of value under current conditions. This paper discusses the technical reasons for the lack of commercial interest in recovering materials from MSW. After examining the nature of the salvage industry and trends in the use of materials, the paper considers the characteristics of secondary materials, the properties required of them, and the scope for increased salvage activity. The market prospects are described for waste paper, ferrous and non- ferrous scrap, glass and polymers.
Some criteria for the successful commercial recycling of heterogeneous plastics waste
Abstract Five means of disposal of plastics waste are considered — biodegradation, pyrolysis, incineration, sanitary landfill and recycling. Recycling is the only one permitting conservation of raw material and at the same time giving an opportunity for commercial profit. Six criteria for successful recycling of mixed plastics waste are presented: efficient homogenization; conservation of energy by adiabatic operation; one-step conversion of waste to finished product; consistency of feedstock; maximization of plant utilisation; selection of finished product from the standpoint of marketability.
Arc flash hazard assessment in the mining industry
When it comes to electrical safety in the workplace, arc flash has become the most prominent topic over the past decade. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, including state chapters) is the only government body that recognizes NFPA-70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. However, OSHA does not have jurisdiction in mining operations. Electrical safety for the metal and nonmetal surface mining industry is covered by the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 30, Part 56, Subpart K (Electricity). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is responsible for enforcing electrical safety in mining operations. CFR Title 30 does not reference personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect electrical workers against arc flash hazards. This paper provides maintenance and safety personnel in surface Metal/Nonmetal mining operations with a step by step guide to implementing an electrical safety program that meets the requirements of MSHA, CFR Title 30 and NFPA-70E.