Rechberger, H. (1999). Entwicklung einer Methode zur Bewertung von Stoffbilanzen in der Abfallwirtschaft [Dissertation, Technische Universität Wien]. reposiTUm. https://resolver.obvsg.at/urn:nbn:at:at-ubtuw:1-9657
Decision making in waste management requires reliable methods to evaluate waste treatment processes. So far, evaluation methods have mainly been based on environmental performances, recycling rates, public acceptance and costs. In this thesis, the topic of substance management is introduced as an additional decision criteria. The characteristics of a process to dilute or concentrate substances are measured by means of substance flow analysis and evaluated by a formalism derived from statistical entropy. In order to evaluate and compare different waste treatments, the Substance Concentrating Efficiency (SCE) of a treatment is defined. The method allows to compare material balances of single processes with various emissions and residues, as well as combinations of processes such as entire waste treatment systems. Examples are given for various waste management options such as incineration and mechanical- biological treatment. Based on the SCE methodology, it appears that with present technology, waste incineration is superior to centralized sorting and land-filling. It is suggested, that this tool is used for future evaluation and design of waste treatment systems.
