Estudio de la Utilización como Combustible Alternativo y Plan de Disposición Final de los Neumáticos Desechados en la Ciudad de Riobamba

Abstract

This study was based on the analysis of the energy potential of the discarded tires of the city of Riobamba, for the identification of the possible uses as an alternative fuel and its correct management plan and final disposal of this type of waste that is becoming a great nuisance in our city due to its large dimensions that make its storage difficult. The surveys and analysis were conducted during the months of June to October 2008, where the number of vehicles in Riobamba was determined at 50,000 vehicles, data obtained from the Provincial Traffic Headquarters, which generate around 177,260 used tires per year in the city. 260 used tires per year in the city, this was determined by means of surveys in the different tire concessionaires and distributors, the monitoring zones chosen were 24 of the 68 vulcanizadoras existing in the urban perimeter due to their location and importance, the analysis of the Calorific Power was carried out in the laboratory of Colloid Chemistry of the Central University of Ecuador. With the results obtained in this study it was possible to determine that the energetic power is adequate and that it ranges between 6,500 to 9,000 cal/g, being able to be used as an alternative fuel, for example, in the cement industry. As a contribution to the solution of this problem, a Management and Final Disposal Plan for these wastes was elaborated. It could serve as a reference for further studies.