HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0162.000 2006-2008 tv w
$O$ ,]AC'O$S'ON ~ 333 Kilauea Avenue, Second Flunr
Councilmember ,c Ben Franlan Brulding, Hilo. HawaiS 96720
Clrnir, Environmental Mana ement Committee Mailing Address' 25 Aupuni Street. Suite 200
Vice-Chair, Finance Committee ~•e:'M:r. Phone: (808) 961-8263
Fay: (808)901-8912
E-Mail: jacobsrmoco.ha~caii.lri-us
HAWAII COUNTY COUNCIL
Comity of Hmvai 'i
MEMORANDUM
t7
Date: February 7, 2007 ~ ~ _
c.
~
To: Pete Hoffmann, Council Chair
and Members of the County Council
~ ;
From: Bob Jacobson, Council Member ~
District 6 ~
Re: Sustainable Integrated Waste Management Facility (SIWMF) Report
Attached for your review and consideration is a copy of the SIWMF presented by Clean
Earth Energy Hawai` i - LLC. Mr. Max Goldberger will be available to give a presentation
and answer any questions. I would like to request this item be placed on the Environmental
Management Committee agenda at your earliest convenience.
BJ/bl
Comm. No. ~ 1~2-•
Ref. To: L
Ref. Date 2007
District 6 -Upper Puna, Ka'k, and South Kona
Hmvai `i County LsAn Equal Upportunit}• Provider And Employer
CCean Earth Energy .~-Cawaii - ~fiCo
SU.staina6le Integrate~f`Waste to Energy ~FaciCties
Mr. George Yokoyama December 19, 2006
Director
Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council
47 Rainbow Drive
Hilo, HI 96720
Phone: 808-961-2681
Fax: 808-935-9213 ` ~
t__ ~ _ : ~
Subject: Sustainable Integrated Waste Management Facility (SIWMF)
Technical Proposal =z'
cD
We aze providing you with a technical proposal regazding the development of a Sustainable
Integrated Waste Energy Facility (SIWEF) in Hawaii. The proposal is intended to facilitate your
discussions with other government agencies interested in funding research and development of unique
renewable energy projects.
The SIWEF, unlike any facility developed to date, incorporates unique advanced cutting edge
technologies -all patented, patent pending, or trade secreted, proven, and demonstrated processes; for
creating, collecting and converting simple and free landfill gas into valuable hydrogen for the
production of electricity or low cost, high grade transportation fuel.
The SIWEF is a new technically advanced, covered and clean, solid waste facility on a small
footprint, which quickly removes valuable recyclable materials from garbage and then compacts, bails
and packages the re,na'"?ng organic waste into environmentally sound plastic sealed blocks. Stacks of
these lazge blocks are then bio-chemically cultured or farmed to produce and collect methane and
cazbon dioxide gases in substantial volumes. These gases are efficiently converted to low cost hydrogen
for electrical generation or low cost high grade transportation fuel through compact Advanced
Chemical Reforming modules integrated with the advanced landfill facility. The same advanced landfill
will also have the capability of treating soil from contaminated properties in the community. This entire
process is closed cycle and simply managed so that no harmful emissions or effiuents are released to
the environment - no odor, no pollution, and is visually pleasing. This facility has the capability of
being used over and over again. This technical report, discusses the status of this unique facility and our
efforts to commercialize this process and initiate operations in the next few months.
SIR'EF Techn&a! Proposo!
ConfiJentia!
Clean Earth Energy - ~fawaii -Milo ~~c
Sustaina6Ce IntegrateQ `Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
Over the past yeaz we have worked diligently to prove the technical and fmancial viability of
developing a SIWEF facility. Our work is complete and ready to commercialize. We have designed an
Advanced Chemical Reforming Reactor and gas cleaning and separating processes. We aze also
familiaz with and can operate modified gas to liquid conversion reactors. We have successfully treated
contaminated soil on a large scale for the past three years. Work efforts to date have been completed
and thoroughly evaluated by three competent and nationally recognized PhDs including an
environmental engineer, mechanical engineer and chemical engineer. The SIWEF Advanced Chemical
Reformer Reactor process was also reviewed by Dr. Gerd Sandstede, representing STC - a renowned
chemical institute in Germany. All of the reviews were positive indicating the complete technical
viability of the project.
All that remains, prior to commercialization is the demonstration scale fabrication of two
processes. Bench and pilot scale activities for these efforts have been successfully completed. These
activities can be completed together and aze identified below. We aze seeking seven million ($'7M) to
complete these two activities, which aze identified in this proposal as Phase I of the SIWEF Project:
I) Construction of a full scale landfill block and finalize related testing to demonstrate the
effectiveness of methane gas famung.
2) Construction of a demonstration scale Advanced Chemical Reforming Reactor operated
to efficiency to demonstrate that landfill gas can be easily converted to syngas
containing low cost hydrogen and cazbon dioxide.
SIWEF technology solves serious problems in Hilo, Hawaii. The SIWEF can provide the public
with expert waste management services and a long term stable energy flow at very attractive prices.
The concept can be systematically repeated in many other locations. We look forward to discussing the
details of the project with you and your staff.
Thank You,
lnanieCl~.x9KcNair
Daniel Rex McNair
SlWEF Technical Propose/
ConJldentlal
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, LLC
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~'Waste to Energy ~FaciCities
SUSTAINABLE INTEGRATED
WASTE ENERGY FACILITY (SIWEF)
TECHNICAL PROPOSAL
Hilo, Hawari
Y
i
x
Prepared By:
SI'Gt~E~E' LLC
155 West Main, Suite #2
Rexburg, Idaho 83440
P: 208-656-0914
X:208-656-0359
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo GLC
Sustainable IntegrateQ `Waste to Energy ~Facifities
Environmental Dilemma -Waste, Energy and Contaminated Property
National Considerations
The United States is experiencing amulti-faceted environmental dilemma with serious consequences
involving waste, energy and contaminated property. Current methods engender a "bury, bum, and haul"
waste management philosophy, which causes us to ignore more effective waste management technologies.
Common landfilling, incinerating, or off-site shipment is all intimately linked to the cost of petroleum fuel.
As a country we consume tremendous amounts of fuel and live in a volatile petroleum based economy with
unstable escalating prices. Using petroleum fuel requires storage in tanks with leaks or spills that cannot be
avoided. The cost of waste management continues ever upward at a current national rate of 12% per annum.
Look at the following interesting facts:
• 4.41bs of waste per person every day. With a population of 298 million we amass 240 million
tons of gazbage a yeaz.
• 35,000 abandoned landfills and 3,043 operating landfills. Over 85% of these
landfills leak into underlying groundwater.
• Combined, landfills are the single largest methane emission source in the nation at 7 billion
tons per yeaz. Only 10% of this gas is captured and controlled and only 20%
- 30% of a current standazd design landfill can be farmed for methane.
• New environmental regulations are being promulgated to mitigate environmental damage
from leaking landfills, air polluting incinerators and cross-ocean shipment of wastes. These
changes, to protect the environment, increase solid waste management expenses so high that
they are unaffordable.
• Landfills operate at significant cost with all of the increasing expenses passed on to the public.
• The US accounts for 25% of world energy use.
• The US consumes 800 billion gallons of petroleum fuel per yeaz with 600 billion gallons
attributed to vehicles and equipment.
• Over 700,000 underground storage tank facilities experience 24,000 spills annually with
mitigation costs exceeding $24 million.
• Over 300,000 leaking underground storage tanks are currently being assessed with over $2
billion in annual remediation costs.
• 450,000 seriously contaminated properties aze tied to the use of petroleum based products and
not productively contributing to the tax base.
The problems identified are interrelated and receive much of our hard earned money. We need to find a
better way to manage waste, produce energy and eliminate contaminated soil through an effective affordable
solution for the public, which is currently available and proven. Now, let's focus on the specific nature of
these problems in Hawaii.
SIWEF Tecknkal Proposal
ConjWeatid t
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo,
' Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to ~Exergy ~FaciC:ties
Hawaiian Considerations
The multi-faceted environmental dilemma of waste, energy and contaminated soil is especially serious
and exaggerated in Hawaii. Waste management is complicated due to landlocked positioning and
hydrogeologic difficulties such as rough terrain, precipitation and the high cost of real estate. Waste
management costs escalate in Hawaii at 21 % per annum, almost double the national rate. Compliance with
new environmental regulations for landfills, incinerators and off site shipment operations are practically
unaffordable as well as difficult to site, permit, or close. Hawaiian fuel is expensive because it is imported by
bazge and then transferred and stored for distribution. Storage exhibits a high incidence of leakage because of
acidic soil conditions coupled with high soil moisture content. Accordingly, numerous petroleum
~pnraminar`vi sites are present in Hawaii. The State has no fixed facility for treating contaminated soil.
Consider these additional facts:
• Hawaiians produce 32% more gazbage per individual (5.81bs per person per day) than other
Americans.
• 2 million tons of gazbage is generated annually in Hawaii due to a year round growing season,
transport Packaging, and tourism.
• Hawaii has l Olandfills - 50% of them aze Homing out of space in the next few years and 50%
of them have no bottom liners - in essence, open dumps.
• Only one landfill in Hawau collects methane gas for use.
• Hawaii imports $2 billion per year in coal and oil from out-of--state businesses to produce
electricity and a catastrophic ocean spill of fuel these shipments could cost the state $7.6
billion in recovery costs.
• Only 7% of Hawaii's current energy is created from renewable sources.
• Hawaii has the highest cost of petroleum fuel in the nation.
• Hawaii lists 12,180 above ground storage tank sites, 7,806 underground storage tank sites and
2,0201eaking underground storage tank sites.
• Appmximately1,500 sites annually in Hawaii are involved in regulatory actions, spill response
or remediation efforts.
• The State receives 6,000 notifications of waste spills annually with 17% requiring a response.
The City of Hilo, located on the big island of Hawaii has a specific problem needing an immediate
solution. Their problems are reaching a crisis. For several months, we have been working with economic
development professionals in Hawaii. They are convinced that Clean Earth Energy Hawaii -Hilo LLC
possess the unique solution Hilo needs and are encouraging the State to proceed with plans to support our
effort. Hawaiian solid waste subcontractors, involved in various facets of solid waste management, aze
working with us to establish a SIWEF.
SIWEF Techeicd Proposd
ConJidtnaal 2
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo,
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to ~E.nergy Patties
Hilo Environmental Dilemma
The Hilo landfill is at or past capacity and was scheduled to be closed in Mazch, 2006. Immediate
closure of the cunent landfill was recently stopped by local City and County Councils. A temporary fix was
approved allowing the slopes on the sides of the 200 foot high garbage mountain to be increased, thus
squeezing out some additional space around the 2 million tons of disposed waste. Time is running out for a
solution in Hilo. Options to replace the landfill currently being considered include:
1. Shipping approximately 80 trucks per day canying 200 tons of waste 80 miles and 2 hours to the
Kohala Coast landfill, through traffic-jammed Kamuela to North Kona's Puuanahulu Landfill, the
only remaining landfill on the island located 2 miles from the large resorts along the west coast. The
cost of closing the old Hilo landfill and constructing a transfer station to accommodate shipments is
estimated between $35 and $75 million Landfill tipping fees will also increase above $75/ton
because of the cost of transportation fuel and its inherent volatility.
2. Exploring and developing a new, high-tech method of garbage disposal is estimated to cost as much
as $60 million -all of this for a community of approximately 50,000 persons, exclusive of small
outlying areas. Among options evaluated to date is waste-to~nergy combustion, thermal gasification
or anaerobic digestion technology. This higher cost will again result in increased waste tipping fees to
the public.
3. Shipping the waste to the mainland for off-loading and transfer to a regional landfill such as Rabanco
in Yakima, Washington is feasible. This option is currently used in South East, Alaska; under similaz
crises with garbage, at a cost of $130/ton This represents a total estimated cost between $45 and $85
million to Hilo. In three, years shipment costs in SE Alaska have escalated from $90/to to $130kon
The option is financially weak.
The county still has not decided on an option, where it might be built or deployed and how to pay for
it. County officials and waste management experts agree it will take years before construction of a new
option can even begin. Regardless, within one to two years a solution will be mandated because waste is
generated every day without ceasing and the landfill is almost full. Requests for Proposal have been
solicited by government agencies serving the residents of Hilo to solve the problem. Several proposals
have been evaluated and a few have been selected for fiuther consideration. However, each of the
proposals request significant amounts of funding from the County and City tazgeting old outdated
incineration methods.
Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC has developed a state of the arthigh-tech advanced solution for
Hilo and for Hawaii in general, which resolves the lack of landfill space, ineffective waste management,
groundwater contamination, lack of renewable energy and cleanup of contaminated real estate through
development of a privately owned and operated Sustainable Integrated Waste to Energy Facility.
The SIWEF insures short and long term waste management, fuel and electrical production cost
stabilization Clean Earth Energy Hawaii -Hilo LLC can implement a private solution with significant
benefits to the residents of Hilo and sun-ounding areas.
S/WEF Teckn&a/ Psoposa!
ConfidenNa/ 3
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, ~L~
Sustaina6Ce Inteerate~f `Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
SIWEF Description
General Description
Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC has developed a patented and advanced biochemical system for
converting waste to energy called a Sustainable Integrated Waste Energy Facility (SIWEF). The state-of--art
processes inherent in this facility are uniquely integrated to synergrze energy production and eliminate
pollution. At the core of the system are an advanced design landfill and a unique Advanced Chemical
Reforming Reactor utilized to produce low cost clean synthetic gas, which is easily converted to electrical
power or high grade transportation fuel. The system revolutionizes current waste management practices. The
development of a SIWEF, as described, provides substantial benefit to the island of Hawaii and its residents
and is anon-incineration environmentally acceptable technology.
The SIWEF facility is aone-stop-shop for processing waste in a clean and zero emission environment.
Municipal and industrial solid waste, contaminated soil and a variety of biomass sources are received at the
facility. Recyclable materials of value and detrimental hazardous materials are fast removed from the waste
stream. The remaining waste is then compacted, bailed and packaged into large sealed plastic boxes
retrofitted with input and output ports. These boxes are stacked in arrays and "fanned" under anaerobic
conditions to produce landfill gas. Gas production is enhanced in the sealed blocks by the introduction of
microbes and nutrient broth through the input port. Landfill gas is then extracted through the output port of
the block. This method of landfill gas production is three times as effective as current measures. Collected
landfill gas is cleaned and separated by a unique process. Gas impurities and wastewater are pumped back to
the landfill block to facilitate anaerobic growth. Methane is directly combusted to produce electrical power or
is reformed in the Advanced Chemical Reformer reactor to produce other high energy gases such as
hydrogen Carbon dioxide is also reformed in the advanced chemical reforming reactor with methane and/or
biologically converted in a separate high pressure and temperature bioreactor to methane.
An advanced chemical reforming reactor utilizing the free energy produced from the reaction of alkaline
metals and hydroxides is constructed to convert methane (produced as described above) and other
carbonatious biomass fom~rs into hydrogen and carbon monoxide. This conversion increases the production
capability of the landfill gas by a factor of five. Outputs from the reactor include hydrogen, carbon monoxide
and impurities. Output gas products are cleaned and separated as required. Trace gas impurities are returned
to the landfill blocks for anaerobic conditions enhancement. Hydrogen and carbon monoxide represent
synthetic gas. This synthetic gas can also be combusted to produce electrical power (with five times the
capability as methane). Alternatively, in a ration of 2:1 (hydrogen to carbon monoxide), the synthetic gas can
be converted to a high grade, clean transportation grade fuel (dodecane -diesel, or heptane -gasoline). This
fuel has higher octane and is cleaner than the fuel currently in use.
S/WEF Technka/ Proposd
Canjidertfa/ 4
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, LLC
Sustaina6fe Integrate~`Waste to energy ~Facif~hes
Unique Benefits of SIWEF
• The Advanced Municipal Solid Waste Facility footprint is six times smaller than a
conventional landfill (approximately 40 acres). Waste compaction at 6:1 coupled with
recycling reduces overall waste volume by 88%.
• 100% of the landfilled municipal solid waste is sealed in blocks thus eliminating odor and
unsightly conditions. These blocks produce landfill gas under controlled conditions. The gas is
utilized in other processes. The resulting waste in the blocks, after methane production is
spent is converted to feed stock for the ACRR for additional low cost hydrogen production.
• Hazardous materials are isolated and removed from the municipal waste stream. The risk of
groundwater contamination is significantly diminished by removing hazardous materials.
• Recyclable materials are recovered prior to packaging and landfilling.
• Landfill is operable for at least 40 years and likely much longer as the landfill blocks are
farmed for gas and then recycled again and again.
• SIWEF is engineered for clean, green, compliant, failsafe operations readily accepted by the
public.
• The Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor is flexible and can be operated with other
cazbonatious feed stocks including oil, biomass, cazbon waste streams, agricultural products,
wood, rubber products etc.
• The SIWEF provides short and long teen opportunities by meeting current fuel needs and
meeting the future hydrogen economy requirements. A long term stable price for outputs is
established.
• Both direct and indirect employment is created. The facility will create a variety of high paid
employment opportunities for Hawaiians at varying education and experience levels. It is
estimated that as many as 50 direct jobs and possibly 100 indirect jobs will be created.
SIWEF Tecknica! Propose!
ConJidende/ 5
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo,
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to energy ~Fa~ties
Detailed Description
The following processes aze included in a completed SIWEF. Detailed descriptions of and Advanced
Design Landfill (ADL), Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRR), and Gas-to-Liquid Converter
(GTLC) are included. Descriptions of several sub-processes are also provided. A flow diagram of the SIWEF
is also included for information.
Develoomeut
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S/WEF Technical Proposal
ConJldentlal 6
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - xilo
Sastaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
Advanced Desim Landfill (ADL)
The Advanced Design Landfill (ADL) is unlike any landfill currently constructed and operating. The
ADL surpasses current USEPA RCRA Subtitle D standazds for landfills and is composed of three state-
of-the-art advanced covered unit processes including a Waste Recycling Center (WRC), Landfill Stack
Center (LSC), and Soil Treatment Center (STC). Combined, these facilities meet all of the community's
waste needs and provide long term stable employment. This is a one-stop-shop for waste management.
Waste Recycline Center tWRC)
Municipal solid waste is collected by private enterprise and delivered to the Clean Earth Hawaii-Hilo
advanced design landfill in trucks where it is dumped inside a building onto a hopper feeding a lazge loop
shaped conveyor belt. Garbage is hand sorted from the conveyor to remove hazardous materials, metal,
plastic, glass, and cardboazd/office paper. This has proven to be the most effective method for recycling.
Each of these recyclable commodities, constituting approximately 32% of the municipal solid waste stream is
stored in a portable bin. When filled, bins are moved from the conveyor belt line to stand-by storage. In
storage, bin contents are cleaned as needed and packaged for off site shipment to reprocessing facilities or
on-site uses. The hand sorting operation is developed in consideration of strict human health and safety
methodology with appropriate personnel protective equipment, ventilation and wash-down capability. Vented
air and wash down water is captured and recycled in various locations in the SIWEF. After hand sorting, the
,p.~,A;.»~g garbage, containing mostly organic and cellulose derived waste, is collected in a hopper for future
compaction, bailing and packaging into plastic sealed blocks or cubes in the Landfill Stack Center (LSC).
Other solid waste landfill inputs are also managed, which are typically ignored in most communities.
Such waste streams constitute an additional 9% of the municipal solid waste stream. These wastes received at
the WRC include white goods, used oil and off-spec fuel, tires, automobiles, wood scrap, construction and
demolition debris, dead animals, medical, and asbestos wastes. These materials are separated individually
and placed in covered areas or on lay down pads adjacent to the WRC. White goods are first stripped of
plastic and Freon and then processed and sold as scrap steel. Freon is shipped off-site as a recyclable
hazardous material while collceted plastic is incorporated into appropriate WRC recycling bins. Used oil and
fuels are received and stored in bermed and double contained tanks. Periodically, the used oil and off-spec
fuel is combusted in a cyclonic high temperature incinerator. Emissions and heat fiom the incinerator are
recycled through the SIWEF.
S/WEF Technlca/ Proposal
ConJldenfial 7
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii -Milo, LLC
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to energy ~Fa~ties
Automobiles are disassembled after fuel, motor oil, transmission fluid and antifreeze are drained and the
battery removed. Collected petroleum products aze stored as used oil and off-spec fuel for combustion.
Batteries aze stored for off-site shipment. Plastic is also removed and placed in appropriate WRC recycling
bins. The remaining vehicle hulk is cnuhed and shipped off-site as scrap steel. Wood scrap is shredded and
added to landfill blocks for methane production. An encapsulated dead animal pit is also provided for
convenience. Construction and demolition debris (CBcD) is sorted as practicable and also incorporated into
the landfill as cover. Asbestos waste is placed in a separate landfill cell adjacent to the LSC. Medical waste is
not processed at the facility and is shipped to a medical waste incinerator. Organic based materials, used oil,
off-spec fuel, tires, miscellaneous petroleum products, wood scrap, and any carbon based materials separated
can also be utilized as carbon feedstock for the AC1tR.
Land511 Stack Center (LSC)
Approximately 68% of the municipal solid waste collected at the landfill is organic in nature and
amenable to producing significant quantities of landfill gas. This waste is captured in a processing bin or
hopper after recyclables are removed. The organic waste is reduced in volume by a factor of six (6) in a lazge
repeating pulse hydraulic press. Similar super compactors have been developed and used by the Department
of Energy for years to manage nuclear wastes. When compacted, the waste bale or block is pushed into a
second bin where it is bound with four strands of wire. The secured block is then pushed into a third chamber
where it slides into a large 50 mil plastic open top block. A secured and sealed plastic lid will then be added
to the top of block.
Each block is an appropriate size conducive to truck transport with a compacted volume of approximately
600 ft~. Two ports consisting of 4 inch diameter plastic pipes are inserted at opposite ends of the top of each
landfill block through the locking lid. The pipe penetrating the block with depth is added for injecting water
(clean, wash down, or leachate) or liquid biochemical treatment reagents (bacteria and nutrient broth) to
enhance landfill gas production. The shallow penetrating pipe is used to extract landfill gas. Landfill blocks
are stored and delivered to the Landfill Stack Center (LSC) for placement in an excavated cell in defined
arrays of 100 blocks. Gas produced from the landfill is cleaned and separated using conventional chemical
engineering processes into carbon dioxide (50%) and methane gas fractions (50%}. It is anticipated that block
arrays will produce gas for 25 years or more.
Optional processes for refomvng the carbon dioxide fraction of landfill gas to methane (50%) are
currently under development by Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC including new chemical conversion
processes and a biological process. Under the proper conditions of temperature, pressure and solvated
electron flow, carbon dioxide can be converted to methane. Bacteria (Methmtococcus jamwsci?ii) grown at
high temperature (70C) and high pressure (200 atm) are also known to convert cazbon dioxide to methane.
The Department of Energy has spent millions of dollars genetically decoding these genera of bacteria and
only recently has developed methodology allowing the bacteria to be successfully cultured and used in
reactor vessels.
SIIVEF Technkd Proposal
caafrdeatfa! a
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii -Milo, LGC
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~'a~ties
Converting cazbon dioxide to methane would essentially double the amount of hydrogen and liquid
synthetic fuel that could be produced at the Hilo, Hawaii landfill.
Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRR)
Scrubbed gas from Phase I operations is provided as feedstock to the Advanced Chemical Reformer
Reactor (ACRR). The ACRR facility is an enclosed mechanical plant on a small footprint of
approximately 40 ft. x 40 ft. designed to convert landfill gas to clean hydrogen. Reforming occurs in two
basic steps.
In the first step, water is removed from a hydrated chemical reactant (alkaline metal hydroxide -
hydrated), which is pre-heated then combined with pre-heated cazbon beazing gas (methane). Additional
reaction heat and pressure is provided in the Advanced Chemical Reformer reactor - a controlled reaction
vessel, to form hydrogen gas and alkaline metal vapor. The hydrogen and alkaline metal vapor are separated
through cooling and condensation. The liquid alkaline metal is then reclaimed and reformed in a chemical
recycling chamber back to alkaline metal hydroxide. This reactant is then recycled again and again through
the process as described, to produce hvdroaen eas - in essence an alkaline metal motor. Hydrogen gas from
the process is produced at either low pressure or high pressure depending on the need and energy benefit.
In the second step, landfill gas containing a mixture containing a portion of clean cazbon dioxide from the
landfill and also clean methane from the landfill enters through the ACRR reactor. When these two landfill
gases and the alkaline metal hydroxide are mixed at high temperatures as described, they form both carbon
monoxide gas, more hydrogen gas, and alkaline metal vapor. The alkaline metal vapor is separated from the
other two gases through cooling and condensation and is recycled back to the ACRR reactor. In this manner,
the facility also produces synthetic gas composed of carbon monoxide and hydrogen and also relatively pure
hydrogen gas. These gases are then further cleaned and separated as required using conventional chemical
engineering processes.
Hydrogen gas and synthetic gas produced by this means provides five times the capability as provided
by methane gas alone. All of the heat fiom the reaction is captured and reused and green house gas
emissions are reduced. Both of these gases can be supplied directly to gen sets for the production of long
tens stable and low cost electricity.
Landfill blocks provide a consistent, continuous and long-term flow of gas, which is cleaned and
separated prior to entering the ACRR reactor. Additionally, the ACRR reactor can accept high carbon input
sources as feedstock including biomass in all varieties. When spent, after approximately 25 years, the
biomass in the landfill blocks contains 80% carbon in the form of inert solids. This material will be emptied
from the blocks, shredded, and processed for feeding into the chemical conversion reactor.
S/WEF Tec6nicN Proposal
ConJidextial 9
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo, GGC
Sustainable Integrate~~lNaste to Energy ~Fa~ties
This addition will further enhance gas production and flexibility. Approximately, one ton of biomass from
the spent landfill blocks will produce 123 Kg of hydrogen gas. The empty plastic boxes will be recycled and
reused at the landfill. Other sources of biomass can also be used including manure, straw, grass, shredded
wood, etc. One ton of material from these sources (one ton) will produce 76 Kg of hydrogen gas. Impurities
from the process can be captured and returned to the landfill blocks to enhance anaerobic activity.
Gas to Liquid Converter (GTLC)
Alternatively, the gases, in the proper ratios from the Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRR),
can be used in alias-to-Liquid Converter - (GTLC) to produce high grade transportation fuel -diesel or
gasoline. The GTLC module occupies a small footprint (20 x 20 feet) and is an enclosed mechanical
package treatment plant designed to convert hydrogen to transportation grade fuel. The GTLC is similar to
the current Syntroleum Modified Fischer-Tropsch process, which is well suited for converting gas to liquid
at small scale. Processing integrates high temperature conversion, adsorption, hydrogenation and
oligomerization methodologies to produce clean high grade fuel for transportation use. Synthetic fuel
produced is clean and has a higher octane rating than distilled petroleum fuel providing better mileage per
gallon and less harm to vehicle emission components such as catalytic converters.
The SIWEF also includes an optional fuel storage facility with 200,000 gallon - 60 day capacity and
related distribution network. This system is housed in a concrete bermed azea to eliminate the risk of
environmental release of fuel.
Soil Treatment Center
Contaminated soil is delivered to the Soil Treatment Center (STC) by individuals or regulatory agency
controlled remediation projects in the community after waste characterization and acceptance criteria are
met. Selected systems have completed required EPA testing for listing on the National Contingency Plan
under the USEPA Oil Program. One of the systems, System ET-20, is currently the number one system for
aliphatic and aromatic waste removal efficiency. Soils contaminated with petroleum products (gasoline,
diesel, motor oil, etc.) are first delivered to a receiving hopper and are then conveyed by batch into a
modified pug mill. Contaminated soils are aggressively mixed with biochemical treatment materials
including microbes, bio-nutrie~ and hydrocarbon cracking chemicals. Treated soils are discharged into a
bio-cell constructed at the end of the processing train for a short curing and aeration period prior to being
released for use as landfill cover -after appropriate confirmation testing. Soils contaminated with
chlorinated organic chemicals are treated in a similar manner through a separate hopper and processing
train including soil washing and modified soil shredding capability.
S/WEF Taheka! Propasd
ConJldmNal 10
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo, ~L~
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
In a similaz fashion, these treated soils aze also discharged into a sepazate bio-cell for curing and
aeration. Once confirmed to have met clean-up standazds, these soils aze also released for use as landfill
cover. The time cycle for both treatment processes is accelerated and is completed from start to finish in 10
to 25 days. Remediation of properties contaminated with petroleum products or chlorinated organic
chemicals provides for reclamation of unusable properties and allows them to be sold and re-developed -
cleanvaluable properties ready to sell. Such actions could also involve off-set Brownfield funding from the
USEPA for the community.
Obviously, the SIVJEF is a completely unique advanced state-of--the-art facility in comparison to a
standazd design landfill, or other similaz conventional waste management process. The SIWEF is integrated
and sustainable and will eliminate the waste, energy and contaminated soil concerns in Hawaii; while
producing valuable recyclable commodities and low cost fuel or energy with long term economic stability.
SIWEF Mass and Energy
Each system in the SIWEF is identified as astand-alone process in the planned order of
construction. A Standard Design Landfill (SDL) will first be developed as a base unit and will then be
converted to an Advanced Design Landfill (ADL). The Advanced Chemical Reformer (ACRR) will then be
added to the ADL. The optional Gas-to-Liquid Converter (GTLC) and associated Fuel Storage can then be
added to support the ACRR.
Based on the described process and very conservative efficiencies (40% - 60%); the mass and
energy for operating a facility in Hilo, Hawaii is noted below:
SIWEF Technkal Proposal
ConJ7dentia! 11
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~LiCo, LLC
Sustaina6[e Integrater!`Waste to Energy ~F'a~ties
Mass and Energy
INPUT OUTPUT
InputMem Value
Out ut Item Value
Muniapal Solid Waste 198TPD
Re clable Commodkies 62.6 TPD
Recy/a6/eMazanious Waste 63 TPD
Hazardous Materials 0.4 TPD
Cellulostic Waste 135 TPD
Landfill Cover Soil 75 TPD
Other Waste 39 TPD
Landfill Blocks 377 r
Shredded Biomass 40 TPD
Methane Gas 4.1 TPD
Cube Biomass (+25 yr. Lag) 108 TPD
H dr en 1.13 TPD
Contaminated Shc 75 TPD 25,776
Electrical Power kwhrPD
POL Contaminated Soil 64 TPD 763,540
S nthetic Diesel a
PCB Contaminated Soil 11 TPD
Carbon D'axide Converted 11.2 TPD
Eledripl Power 500 kwhr PD
Operational Efficiency
Estimated operational efficiencies utilized in production models are noted below:
Process Efficiency
Standard Design Landfill (SDL) 30%
Advanced Design Landfill (ADL) 75%
ADL with Advanced Chemical Reforming 60%
Reactor (ACRR)
ADL with Gas to Liquid Converter (GTLC) 50%
Electrical Power Production 50%
SIWEF Technical Proposal
ConJldentiai 12
CCean Earth Energy - ~Lawaii, GLC
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~FaciCities
The efficiencies noted are very conservative. Actual operations aze expected to substantially
surpass the estimates.
It is beneficial to review the environmental goals the State of Hawaii has considered over many
years in their strategic plans to demonstrate that the SIWEF meets every established criteria for
controlling waste, energy and contaminated soil.
State of Hawaii Elements for a Sound Environmental Solution
Hawaii has worked diligently through the Hawaii Department of Health to resolve environmental
concerns affecting the public. Throughout the years; goals and strategic plans have been established to
manage waste, energy and contaminated property concems. Nine (9) elements of a sound environmental
solution resonate through the history of State environmental policy and annual strategic plans. Each element
defined by the State for an effective solution is addressed in the development of the SPJ?EF as noted in items
below each criterion:
1. Long Term Repeatable Plan
• Minimum 40 year life
• Approximate 40 Acre footprint
• Encapsulated gas famung allows reuses and extends life to greater than 40 years
2. Enhanced Environmental Protection
• Design exceeds RCRA Subtitle D standards
• Hazardous and recyclable wastes removed before landfill blocks are created
• Landfill block are baled, compressed, packaged and sealed in plastic
• Landfill cell for blocks includes a liner and overlaying compacted soil
• Leachate wllection system resides between block spaces
• Blocks are plumbed to remove landfill gas and to recycle leachate
• Odor and aesthetically unpleasing views eliminated
• 100% gas and liquid recycle -closed loop and zero dischazge emissions
• Inert and composted waste in spent blocks is recycled
3. Economic Stimulus with Social Equity
• 40 to 50 direct and 100 indirect jobs spanning social classes
S/WEF Ted6nica! Propose!
ConJldentla! 13
Clean Earth Energy - ~-Cawaii,
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to energy ~Fac~ties
• Absorption of County and City solid waste staff
• Cost stabilized fuel and electrical outputs
• Elimination ofCounty/City capitalization costs
• Flexible and stabilized waste fee structure
4. Systematic Elimination of Waste
• 32% of waste stream removed as recyclables
• 6:1 compaction creating an 88% space savings
• 100% waste stream capture with incentives provided
5. Promotion of Intra-State Reuse and Recycling
• Intra-island acceptance of MSW and other solid wastes from outlying areas and facility
regionalization expansion capability
• Intra-island treatment of contaminated soils (petroleum, pesticide, PCB)
• Primary recyclable commodities removed including ferrous and aluminum metals; green, brown
and cleaz glass; HDPE and PET plastics, and cardboard/office paper
• Secondary recyclable commodities removed or utilized in the ACRR including used oil, scrap
metal, shredded rubber and mulched wood
6. Government and Private Entity Collaboration
• Private capital and operating funds
• County and City assistance is identifying land for a new landfill
• County and City assistance in leasing existing operations and permits
• Long term contracts with stabilized waste fee structure
7. Waste Generation Rate Reduced by 50%
• Net space savings in landfill of 88% allowing an approximate 40 acre footprint
• Promotion of 100% waste collection for recyclable removal and energy
production
8. Development of Inexpensive and Renewable Fuel
• Hydrogen production 448,136 kg/yr (avg.)
• Transportation grade fuel production 456,022 gaVyr (avg.)
• Electrical power generation with 19,468,709 to 63,655,447 kwh/yr (avg.) produced.
• Long term (40 yr. price stability
SIWEF Technkal Proposal
ConJlQentlal 14
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii -Milo, LGC
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~FaciCties
9. Incentive to Remediate Contaminated Soil
• Fixed facility serving infra-island remediation needs
• EPA required testing of treatment methodologies and NCP listing
• TSCA authorized soil washing
• Fast (15 to 25 days or less cycle) and < 30% less than average industry cost
Every element for developing a sound solution to waste, energy and contaminated property concerns is
met with the SIWEF.
SIWEF Technical Viability
The technologies selected for implementation creating the SIWEF are mature, proven, and commercially
developed technologies. The technical feasibility of the SIWEF has been carefully evaluated. Clean Earth
Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC is integrating advanced, high tech systems together for tremendous synergistic
benefit.
Technology Maturity
Advanced Desilm Landfill
Waste Processing Center -Waste recycling technology via a sort belt was originally developed as early as
1980 and perfected in California where it is currently used to date. The current design in the SIWEF is a trade
secret of SIWEF, LLC and Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC. Recycling is the wave of the future as an
effort to reduce waste generation rates.
Soil Treatment Center - Bioenhancement System ET-20 is a trade secret formulation licensed to Clean Earth
Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC invented in 1993. System ET-20 completed required EPA testing for listing on the
National Contingency Plan under the USEPA Oil Program and is currently the number one system for
aliphatic and aromatic molecule removal efficiency. Treatment is achievable in 25 days or less. Synergistic
Biochemical Treat (SBT) is a trade secret technology with several key chemical formulations, including
Pentanonic and PCBX, SBT is used to treat PCBs and chlorinated organics. The process is authorized under
USEPA-TSCA as a soil washing activity. Chemical treatment of chlorinated organics has been viable since
1990 with national licenses originally provided for solvent washing (Terra-Kleen) and sonic energy
displacement (SONIC). A technology has also been developed and currently utilizes a Halogenated Organic
Destruction System (HODS) for destroying chlorinated organics. This technology is one of the only such
nationally licensed under the current USEPA TSCA Program with destruction efficiency equivalent to
incineration.
SIW@F Tec6nfca/ Proposd
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Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii -Milo,
Sustainable Integrated `Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
Landfill Block Center -Landfill block processing is a patent pending process licensed to Clean Earth Energy
Hawaii-Hilo LLC for extracting methane gas from landfills have been viable for over 20 yeazs including gas
collection, storage and electrical power generation techniques. Methane gas from landfills is the third largest
world source of greenhouse gas and only recently recognized for its benefit. In the last few years, hundreds
of landfills in the United States have installed extensive gas extraction systems. 45 new landfills will be
constructed in 2006 and another 300 will be modified to include gas extraction. Solid waste compacting,
bailing and packaging activities have long been the focus of Department of Energy installations in the United
States since the eazly 1990s to reduce radioactive waste volumes. Equipment developed for the Department
of Energy is readily available for modification to address municipal solid waste issues. Compaction
reductions as high as a factor of 1 to 27 have been achieved.
Several factors are known to increase landfill gas production. Each of these factors is enhanced and
controlled by packaging the waste in sealed blocks and by the environmental conditions present in Hawaii:
1. The more organic waste present in a landfill, the more landfill gas is produced by bacterial
decomposition. The amount of organic material in the waste is an important factor in how long
gas production lasts. The SIWEF concentrates organic wastes.
2. Some types of organic waste contain nutrients, such as chemicals potassium, calcium, and
magnesium that help bacteria thrive. When these nutrients are present, landfill gas production
increases. These nutrients and others can be added through the SIWEF configuration.
3. If waste is highly compacted, methane production will begin eazlier as the aerobic bacteria are
replaced by methane-producing anaerobic bacteria. Methanogizing bacteria can also be cultured
and injected into the waste blocks to enhance gas production. The SIWEF achieves the necessary
compaction.
4. The presence of a certain amount of water in a landfill increases gas production. Moisture content
of 40% or higher, based on wet weight of waste, promotes maximum methane gas production
Water must be able to infiltrate and permeate the waste. Water can be added, controlled and
monitored through the SIWEF system. Steam reforming and nitrogen purging can also reduce
carbon dioxide emissions and enhance the production of methane.
5. Warm temperatures increase bacterial activity, which in tum increases the rate of landfill gas
production A capped landfill usually maintains a stable temperature, ma~cim??+n~ gas production
Bacterial activity releases heat, stabilizing the temperature of a landfill between 77° F and 113° F,
although temperatures up to 158° F have been noted. SIWEF blocks will aid in the collection and
maintenance of stable heat values.
6. Age of the refuse is important in determining gas production More recently buried waste will
produce more gas than older waste.
SIWEF Tec6aica/ Proposal
ConJ/denha/ 16
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo, LLC
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~IaciCities
Landfills usually produce appreciable amounts of gas within 1 to 3 yeazs. Peak gas production
usually occurs 5 to 7 years after wastes aze dumped. Almost all gas is produced within 20 yeazs
after waste is dumped; however, small quantities of gas may continue to be emitted from a landfill
for 50 or more years. Alow-methane yield scenario, however, estimates that slowly decomposing
waste will produce methane after 5 yeazs and continue emitting gas over a 40-yeaz period. Gas
production can be enhanced and controlled in the SIWEF.
Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRRI
Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC holds license to existing patents and patent pending formulations
relating to the Advanced Chemical Reforming Reactor and all associated variable configuration designs, sub
systems, and integration processes.
Database Reliability
The data used to develop this proposal was extracted from reliable sources including the USEPA Solid
Waste Program, State of Hawaii Department of Health, and the American Petroleum Institute. To maintain
conservatism in estimating production and profitability, average values were selected for model inputs -not
maximums:
1. Waste classification data was extracted from the national USEPA Solid Waste Database. 2003
average data was utilized from over 2,000 landfills.
2. Actual Hilo, Hawaii generation rates were selected from documents published by the State of
Hawaii Department of Health. Population growth was not added to the figures provided the State.
Modeling
A mass, energy and cost model was developed to evaluate mass and energy flow through the several
selected technologies forming the SIWEF. The tremendous volume of feedstock and effective chemical
reactions allowing recycling results in significant product volume formation. Transforming the output from a
landfill into hydrogen, electricity, or high grade transportation fuel is state-of-the-art proven technology.
SIWEF Technical Proposal
ConJidentlal 17
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, ~L~
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
The model utilizes known and conservative efficiency ratings. Waste collection is considered 90%
effective. Landfill gas production in blocks was increased by a factor of only 25% when 300% is achievable.
No additional factors were added for utilizing 90% of the waste in the landfill instead of a conventional
25%. This retraction ensures conservatism. 83% of the COz gas produced in the landfill was eliminated from
processing in the ACRR. The Advanced Chemical Reforming Reactor (ACRR) was modeled using an
efficiency rating of 60%. The Gas to Liquid Converter (GTLC) was modeled with an efficiency rating of
50%. Again conservatism plays a critical role in the modeling process. Power generation was modeled at
only 40% efficiency. There is a strong probability that actual operations will exceed model expectations. This
is especially true if options enhancing performance are constructed and used.
The model developed by Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC was validated against three
other standard models for gas production from a landfill. Calculated model outputs fall within
the range of expected values. Comparative models were provided by the USEPA, Solid Waste
Federation and the State of California.
Timeliness
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) promotes the management of landfills as
bioreactors to quickly stabilize the waste, reduce landfill toxicity by recalculating leachate, save landfill
space and create landfill gas for beneficent use. Once stabilized, the landfill poses less risk to the
environment and community. Minimum standards for municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill design,
construction, and operation are regulated by Subtitle D of the federal Resource Conservation and Recovery
Act of 1976 -called RCRA -under Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 258 (40 CFR 258).
Leachate recirculation is allowed, and RCRA has now been interpreted as allowing the addition of
uncontaminated water to landfills that were designed and constructed using Subtitle D guidelines.
Recirculation of leachate produced in the landfill is rarely sufficient to raise the water content of the refuse to
levels at which microbial activity is promoted. The USEPA can now issue special research, design, and
development (RD&D) authorization permits to allow other additions of liquids to a bioreactor landfill.
Laboratory studies demonstrated the potential benefits of bioreactor landfill technology as early as the 1970x.
Pilot and firll-scale experiments began to be conducted in the 1980s and 1990x. Today, research continues,
and several full-scale trials are being conducted across the United States. Advanced landfills operated as
SIWEF facilities are expected to produce three times the amount of landfill gas as a conventional landfill
bioreactor over a shorter period of time (10 years). Remember, we are modeled at a 25% increase.
Development of a facility of this nature is not expected to increase tipping fees over the national average. The
USEPA support SIWEF concepts.
The United States Department of Energy (USDOE) has identified hydrogen as the fuel of the
future. The demand for hydrogen has been growing at an annual rate of 5% to 10'/o since the mid
1990'x. Over nine million tons of hydrogen is used annually in the US. In the transportation sector,
hydrogen is used to upgrade the fuel quality to meet emissions specifications for gasoline and
diesel.
S1WEF TeclYekal Proposal
CoafldenHa! 18
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, L~~
Sustainable Integraterl`Waste to Energy Facilities
These emission standards are becoming significantly more stringent in 2007 and 2010. Currently, hydrogen
costs from $7.00 /kg to $20.00 /kg. These costs make it uncompetitive with more conventional fuels. SIWEF
LLC has devised, modeled, and tested a novel Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRR) hydrogen
production system which has the potential to significantly reduce hydrogen and fuel production costs. The
Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor (ACRR) can utilize landfill gas (methane and carbon dioxide) and
reform it into pure high pressure hydrogen. Other feed stocks can also be used in the ACRR including coal,
natural gas, biomass, waste products, and stranded wells containing oil -crude or otherwise. The projected
hydrogen production for the ACRR technology scaled plant is an average of 8,493 kg/day - 50% of
expectations (from a 369 TPD landfill). When attached to alias-to-Liquid Converter (GTLC) module the
ACRR can produce an average of 2,100 gallons - 50% of expectations, low cost, high grade transportation
fuel daily (from a 369 TPD landfill). The ACRR and GTLC have combined footprint size of approximately
40 ft. x 60 ft. These modular units are poised and ready to integrate with landfill operations.
Critical Equations and Calculations
There are several critical chemical processes driving the success of the SI WEF. These are identified
below for further evaluation:
Landfill Gas Production
1. (C6HioOs)u + nHzO ~ 3n COz + 3n CHa
(anaerobic degradation of cellulose by methanogenic bacteria)
2. LFGt = Lo * R * (1- e ) * Y
(first order degradation rate equation -cellulose to methane)
Hvdro¢en Gas Production -Alkaline Metal Reformation utilizinE Sodium
3. 2 NaOH + 2 CHa 2 Na + 2 CO + 5 Hz
4. 2 Na + 2 HzO 2 NaOH + Hz
5. Net: CHa + Hz0 ~ CO + 3 Hz
(~2etfiane reforming with water- refonnate ratio C0:.7fz of 1:3)
S1WEF Techntca/ Proposal
ConJTdenttat 19
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, LLC
Sustainable Integrate~`Waste to energy ~Fa~ties
6. 2 NaOH+3 C+COz c~' 2 Na+4 CO+Hz
7. 2 Na + 2 Hz0 2 NaOH + Hz
8. Net: 3 C + COz + 2Hz0 cA 4 CO + 2 Hz
(Water-Gas & Boudouazd reforming reactions - reformate ratio CO:Hz of 2:1)
9. CHa + COz ~A 2 CO + 2 Hz
(Methane refornung with cazbon dioxide - reformate CO:Hz ratio of 1:1)
10.3CHa + COz + 2Hz0 u~ 8C0 + 4Hz
(Methane reforming with landfill gas - refonnate CO: Hz ratio of 2:1)
Reformate ratios of 2:1 are ideal for gas-to-liquid conversion. Net effect is a min;mumS.IX increase in
power production capability by converting to hydrogen)
Synthetic Fuel Production
11. (2n+1) Hz + n CO ~ Cn H<zn+z~+ n Hz0
Note: Fischer Tropsch equation
12. For Ethane (0=2): 5 Hz + 2 CO 6' Cz H6 + 2 Hz0
(CO/H ratio = 0.20)
13. For Heptane (o='n: 15 Hz + 7 CO C~ Hi6 + 7 Hz0
(CO/Hratio = 0.23)
14. For Dodecaue (n=12):25 Hz + 12 CO 6' Ciz Hz6 + 12 Hz0
(CO/H ratio = 0.24)
Each of these equations and supporting calculations for mass conversion were created by a PhD
Environmental Engineer and have been reviewed and determined to be valid by two PhD Chemical
Engineers and by a chemical engineering institute in Germany.
Pilot Scale Testing
Pilot scale testing of the processes in question was originally completed by Powerball International, Inc.
in Salt Lake City Utah. A lazge operating reactor was developed and commercialized, which was used to
recycle sodium and sodium hydroxide. The process was successful in producing hydrogen. Patents related
to this technology aze licensed to Clean Earth Energy Hawaii-Hilo LLC. Testing to convert methane to
hydrogen commenced in 2001.
SIWEF Technka/ Proposal
ConJWentla! 20
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo, LLC
Sustaina6Ce Integrated'Waste to energy ~F'a~ties
Independent pilot scale testing of equations 3 and 10 to produce hydrogen, the most
critical in the array of equations, was performed by Powerball International Inc. and by
SIVJEF LLC. This equation is a key element in the development of a SIWEF. Reaction products were
successfully obtained under controlled conditions. The results were published for independent review by a
PhD Chemical Engineer and were verified and validated as correct. The remaining equations are common
known reactions. A full scale reactor operated to efficiency is now the critical path for completing the
project.
The SIWEF is clearly a viable new facility composed of advanced technologies at
commereializafion stage and certainly available for integration with a landfill operation.
SIWEF Development
The development of the SIWEF is planned to occur over a three year period. Development will occur
in phases.
Progress to Date
Clean Earth Energy Hawaii -Hilo, LLC has provided a detailed proposal to HCEOC and has visited
HCEOC in Hawaii and proposed collaborative efforts to develop a SIWEF. Following the visit, numerous.
contacts with government agencies were made to educate government officials and identify support funding.
HCEOC is in the process of identifying State properly for development of a SIWEF.
Pkase I -Demonstration ScaleACRR Unit Constructed and Operated to Efficiency
The conversion of landfill gas to hydrogen and synthetic gas is accomplished through the ACRR reactor.
Successful operation of the reactor is contingent upon successfully demonstrating that the key chemical
reactions driving the reactor can be performed to efficiency at demonstration scale. Bench scale and pilot
scale tests have already been completed successfully confirming the driving chemical reactions. Original
testing was performed by Powerball International, Inc. in 2002. Additional testing was completed by
SIWEF LLC in 2006. A demonstration scale reactor has not yet been fabricated and operated to efficiency.
Further, valuable data would be provided allowing for the successful design of afull-scale reactor.
SIWEF Technka/ Proposal
Coajldeetlal 21
Clean Earth Energy ~fawaii - Milo, ~L~
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~'Waste to Energy ~FaciCties
A demonstration scale unit is envisioned as an operating unit the approximate size of a small vehicle,
which can operate over extended periods of time (30 - 60 minute runs). Components for the unit will match
those expected to be used in a full scale reactor. The unit will be retrofitted with fail-safe mechanisms and
system controls to provide for safe accountable operations with the maximum potential to collect accurate
and precise operating data Multiple nms and adjustments will be made until the unit can be operated to its
maximum efficiency.
An additional small test is required to construct a large landfill block and "farm" it to produce landfill
gas under anaerobic conditions. This process is easily accomplished. Similar efforts have been conduced in
many countries in other geometric configurations with other types of biomass. Data is needed to
demonstrate the landfill gas equation production coefficient of 0.17 can in fact be increased to a value
exceeding 0.2125. In this case, the process is viable. Testing will also provide valuable data regarding
enhancement factors such as porosity, density, water content and nutrient concentration.
It is anticipated that the demonstration scale unit and block test can be developed and operated in 6-12
month period of time. Specific activities associated with this Phase of work are noted below:
A -Finalize Design of Demonstration Scale Unit (1 month)
1. Identify modeling parameters and data requirements
2. Develop a testing plan and finalize design
3. Procure, assemble and test sub systems and integration assemblies
B -Construct Demonstration Scale Unit (2 month)
4. Construct Advanced Chemical Reformer Reactor
5. Construct landfill block
C -Operate Demonstration Scale Unit to Efficiency (3 months)
6. Conduct small nms (30 - 60 minutes)
7. Make modifications as needed
8. Conduct performance runs (24 hour; & 1-2 kg alkaline metal)
9. Complete final design for full scale reactor
Phase II -Standard Landfill Operations Sh ~g to Advanced Landfill Operations and Methane Power
Production.
Conventional municipal solid waste land filling in controlled bio-cells and soil treatment activities are
commenced immediately upon completing the necessary arrangements with Hilo. After common landfilling
operations are started, efforts to convert the landfill to an advanced design system will commence.
SIWEF Tecknlca! Proposal
Canfideatw! 22
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo,
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
Each new Advanced Design Landfill process described herein is then brought online independently. First,
the Waste Recycling Center is constructed and recyclable commodities sales commence. Second, facilities to
manage all other wastes aze developed and implemented. Third, the landfill block center is developed
including compacting, bailing, and packaging processes. Next, the collection of methane gas from
conventional landfill bio-cells is converted to landfill block arrays. In the final step of this phase, electrical
power generation from methane gas is brought on-line. It is anticipated that development of the ADL will
require 12-18 months. Specific activities planned for this phase of development are noted below:
A -Finalize Landfill Design and Operations (8 months)
10. Complete Hawaii County land transfer.
11. Secure contracting with Hawaii entities for waste receipts
12. Obtain insurance, bonding and meet financial assurance requirements.
13. Survey facility location and commence background sampling.
14. Complete additional environmental studies as required.
15. Construct standard landfill waste management features.
16. Commence standard landfill operations with a biocell in operation
B -Integration and Final ADL Design (3 months)
17. Acquire and assemble key components.
18. Develop key component control systems.
19. Coordinate County utility services support.
C - ADL Construction and Systemization (9 months)
20. Construct facilities.
21. Complete services contracting.
22. Integrate system controls.
23. Systemize of assemblies and subsystems.
24. Complete trial burn and air permitting.
D - ADL Operations (1 month)
25. Perform readiness review.
26. Complete personnel training.
27. Commence operations.
Phase III -Advanced Chemical Reformer (ACRR) Reactor and Syngas Electrical Power Generatmn
Simultaneously during the construction of the advanced landfill, the full scale ACRR will be fabricated
and brought on-line promulgated by information gained in operating the demonstration scale unit developed
in Phase I. Associated with this effort will be the development of facilities for preparation of alternate feed
stocks for injection into the ACRR, including various cazbonatious materials, glycol, or glycerin from
S1WEF Toc6aica/ Proposal
Coajldeatial ~
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, LLC
Sustainable Integrated'G?aste to Energy ~FaciCties
bio-diesel operations, farm biomass in addition to the materials from the recycling center and material
remaining in the landfill blocks after gas processing is spent. Gas cleaning facilities will also be incorporated.
In the final stages of this phase, power production capability will be added for hydrogen produced in the
reactor. Activities associated with this phase of development include:
A -Modeling, concept engineering and evaluation based on demonstration scale results. (6 months)
28. Complete feedstock and catalyst chemistry evaluation.
29. Finalize configuration design and control strategy for full scale operations.
30. Identify, acquire and assemble key components.
31. Develop key component control systems.
32. Perform key component testing.
33. Coordinate County utility services support.
B - ACRR Construction and Systemization (9 months)
34. Construct facilities.
35. Complete services contracting.
36. Integrate system controls.
37. Systemize and optimize assemblies and subsystems.
38. Perform readiness review.
39. Complete personnel training.
40. Commence operations.
Phase IV-Optional Gas-to-Lrquid Converter (GTLC) Reactor and Fue[ Storage Facilities
During the approximate third year of progress, the optional Gas to Liquid Converter can be brought on-
line Associated with this effort will be the development of fuel storage facilities with 60 day holding
capacity. Activities associated with this phase of development include:
A -Preliminary GTLC Design (3 months)
41. Modeling, concept engineering and evaluation
42. Complete feedstock and catalyst chemistry evaluation.
43. Develop gas performance model and permits.
44. Evaluate configuration design and control strategy for full scale operations.
45. Develop a testing plan and preliminary design.
B -Integration and Final GTLC Design (3 months)
46. Identify, acquire and assemble key components.
47. Develop key component control systems.
48. Perform key component testing.
49. Coordinate County utility services support.
C - GTLC Construction and Systemization (9 months)
50. Construct facilities.
S1WEF Technical Proposal
Coafrdentia! 24
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - .~CiCo,
Sustaina6Ce Integrate~`Waste to Energy ~Fa~ties
51. Complete services contracting.
52. Integrate system controls.
53. Systemize and optimize assemblies and subsystems.
D -GTLC Operations (1 month)
54. Perform readiness review.
55. Complete personnel training.
56. Commence operations.
By the end of the third yeaz, a fully functional SIWEF will be operating with ACRR and
optional GTLC capacity.
Funding Need
Clean Earth Energy Hawaii -Hilo LLC is seeking Phase I funding to support development of a SIWEF in
Hilo, Hawaii. The key to successful development of a SIWEF is the construction and operation of a
demonstration scale Advanced Chemical Reforming Reactor and a full scale landfill block operated to
efficiencies of 50% or greater. Bench and pilot scale testing of key chemical reactions for this conversion
have been completed. All remaining full scale SIWEF processes are designed and functional.
A grant in the amount of $7M will be expended over a period of 4-8 months as follows.
No. Milestone Ezpense
1 Mechanical ui ment $3,250,000
2 Laborato Testin Fees $650,000
3 Technical Labor $745,000
4 Subcontracted Labor $1,950,000
5 Administrative, Overhead & G&A $405,000
TOTAL $7,000,000
SIWEF Tec6nico/ Propose!
Confulentia! 25
CCean Earth Energy ~fawaii - ~fiCo, ~L~
Sustaina6Ce Integrated `Waste to Energy PaciCties
SIWEF Development Team
Team Bios
Mr. Dan McNair - MS. PE
Mr. McNair is the founder, owner, president and CEO of DMC Technologies, Inc. He also acts as Chief
Environmental Engineer for the company with ZO years experience. He provides support to ail company
activities including management and research and development in areas of environmental remediation and
solid waste management. Mr. McNair was instrumental in permitting and establishing the Arco Hills Basin
Landfill currently being permitted for operation in Central Idaho. Mr. McNair is inventor and developer of 8
trade secrets in the field of environmental remediation. He has received numerous engineering awards and is
well published in his field.
Mr. McNair received a BS in Microbiology from BY[J, an MS in Chemical Engineering from the
University of Utah, and MS from Utah State University in Civil and Environmental Engineering and is
completing a PhD from Kennedy Western in Environmental Engineering. He is a Certified Sanitary
Professional Engineer and ranked 16~ in US Who's Who of Environmental Professionals. He has spent 15
years performing field work and is known for his expertise in adapting commercialized technology to the
field.
Intellectual Property
The unit processes forming the SIWEF are patented, patent pending, and trade secreted with intellectual
property described as:
Hydrogen Production Using Natural Gas as a Reductant - US Patent 6,235,235
Hydrogen Production Using Methane as a Reductant -US Patent 6, 221, 31 D
Synthetic Gas Production Utilizing Biomass as a Reductant - US Paten) Pending
Advanced Landfill Block Gas Farming Process -Trade Secret
Synergistic Biochemical Treatment of POL Contaminated Soil -Trade Secret
Halogenated Organic Destruction System (HODS) -Trade Secret
SIWEF Management
This project will be developed under Clean Earth Energy Hawaii -Hilo, LLC. This company is
owned by DMC Technologies, Inc., MaxEnergy Idaho LLC, and MegaTech, LLC. An excellent team is
provided to ensure accountability and performance with company objectives and goals.
SIWEF Technlca/Proposal
ConJldential 26