The Problem
The disposal of sewage and chemical sludge has been a widely debated issue for many years. Traditional disposal methods include using sludge as agricultural fertilizer, reclaiming land, dumping in landfills, and co-combustion of dewatered sludge. However, concerns have risen over contaminants like heavy metals, antibiotics, pathogens and other harmful substances, making agricultural use and landfilling increasingly problematic. With rising fossil fuel costs, dried sewage sludge presents a promising alternative as a new green energy source—CO2 neutral and locally accessible
The Solution
Solar Sludge Drying (SSD) is an innovative process that utilizes solar energy to evaporate water from sewage and chemical sludge, reducing its volume significantly. The sludge is spread in thin layers inside specially designed drying halls, where transparent covers allow sunlight to heat and dry the material. Mechanical systems such as agitators or turners regularly mix the sludge to ensure uniform drying and efficient moisture evaporation. This process not only minimizes sludge volume but also reduces odors and harmful pathogens, making it an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for sludge management.
After the dewatering process, the system can dry the sludge to achieve up to 90% dry solids, reaching energy values between 9 to 12 MJ/kg, depending on its organic content and level of digestion. As a result, the result is a circular economy based approach, wjhere the dried sludge can serve as:
– Cogeneration in Cement industries .
– Fertilizer as pathogens are systematically destroyed in the process.
– Co Processing in Cement industries.
All Valiant Technologies strongly advocate for Clean Tech principles of the Circular Economy, EPR (Extended producer responsibility, and the United nations sustainable development goals (UNSDG) 2030.
Our Strategic Partners
i+M Zizzmann, a global leader in solar sludge drying, has pioneered this eco-friendly technology, which uses solar energy to efficiently dry sewage sludge. They are particularly prominent in India, where they have partnered with the Valiant Team to commission six successful projects. Their technology has been rigorously tested and proven effective in both India and the MENA region, showcasing its reliability and sustainability in diverse climates.
Process Engineering
The Valiant and i+M system offers flexibility from the outset, with options for both automatic conveying and manual input. By utilizing a thin sludge layer along with rapid turning intervals and optimal air supply, the technology effectively prevents anaerobic layers, ensuring a continuous process that allows fresh air to absorb the evaporated moisture.
● Energy Efficiency: Evaporation energy is provided either entirely through solar power
or a combination of solar and free thermal energy, reaching temperatures of around
85°C. This heat can be utilized as an optional floor heating system beneath the sludge for enhanced drying efficiency.
● Optimized Drying Process: The Valiant and i+M system efficiently utilizes the physical properties of water vapor. The warm floor surface initiates vapor formation within the sludge core, which then exits through the sludge shell. Continuous turning and conveying allow the sludge to make contact with fresh, non-saturated air, facilitating the removal of vapor.
● Advanced Control and Design: To maximize efficiency and reduce complications, the system leverages reliable mechanical engineering. A unique air-streaming control system, combined with precision sensors, provides real-time data processed through a Siemens PLC system. The design is flexible, allowing easy integration of an air scrubber when needed.
● Adaptable Drying: The extent to which sludge is dried (up to the desired dry solids
content) is influenced by multiple factors such as the parameters set, weather conditions, available energy, and sludge quality. The Valiant and i+M technology ensures a highly efficient and hassle-free sludge drying process, customizable to various operational needs.
in INDIA.