Grease trap waste: a headache or a valuable energy source?

Abstract

In this article, the grease trap waste (GTW) is defined and its composition is discussed. The
management strategy, including collection, transportation, separation and treatment of GTW
is briefly discussed. Technological options currently used including landfill, fermentation for
biogas, separation of oil from water and other organic matters by boiling are also mentioned.
The state of the art regarding energy from GTW in developed countries like Singapore,
Australia and USA and developing countries including China is addressed and the first-hand
data are collected. The "zero-energy consumption, no mal odor emission" GTW separation
technology is presented. The pilot GTW to bio-diesel plant in small and medium- sized cities
like Neiqiu and Xingtai in Hebei Province, China, shows that the conception of waste to
energy is technologically, environmentally and economically feasible. Academic studies and
engineering practice show that, if GTW is rationally managed, it is an important energy
source to mankind; otherwise, it creates constraints in treatment facilities.