Relative energy efficiency indicators calculated for high-moisture waste-based fuel blends using multiple-criteria decision-making

In this paper, we present a comprehensive evaluation of low-rank fuel compositions obtained using multi-criteria decision-making methods. Here we used a unique combination of parameters, especially important for gaining an insight into the prospects of industrial combustion of water slurries based on waste. The research involved six sets of criteria (cost, energy efficiency, ease of preparation and storage, atomization, fragmentation, and emissions) including a total of seventeen characteristics determined experimentally. An integral efficiency indicator was calculated in each set using the Weighted Sum Model. After that, an overall indicator was calculated accounting for all the key factors. The integral indicator ranged from 0.4 to 0.9 in all the six categories of criteria. The lowest overall efficiency indicators (0.239–0.487) were typical of the fuel containing 50% of flame coal filter cake, 40% of water, and 10% of turbine oil. According to the analysis, the blends based on coal slime and water can be considered the best fuels. The main application of the research findings is the development of compositions to provide positive effects at the stages of fuel preparation, storage, transportation, atomization, and combustion. [Display omitted] •Research involves six sets of environmental, economic, energy criteria.•Efficiency indicator for waste-based fuels was calculated using the weighted sum model.•Efficiency indicator (0.727) is highest for fuel containing 50% of filter cake and 50% of water.•Efficiency indicator (0.239–0.487) is lowest for fuel containing filter cake, water, and oil.•Difference between the efficiency of the best and the worst fuels in their categories is 30–60%.