Bioreactor Landfill versus Traditional Landfill - Essay Example

Waste degradation is achievable through aeration and addition of liquid to the disposed waste material to increase the rate of microbial processes. As a result, there is an increase in the activity of bacteria and consequential increase in the decomposition rate. The method is an improved “dry tomb” approach used by ancient municipalities (the United States Environmental Protection Agency).Bioreactor landfills are multi-design and correspond with the operational approach used (the United States Environmental Protection Agency).

There are different types of bioreactor landfills in the contemporary society. As a result, several characteristics of bioreactor landfills are dependent on configuration type. Bioreactor landfills are classified according to the method of waste degradation used.Aerobic bioreactor landfill involves extraction of material from the bottom layer. It then moves to the liquid storage tanks through pipes and goes back to the landfill in a controlled and highly efficient process. The injection of air aids the bacteria activity on the waste (Hill 340).

The aeration is achievable using horizontal and vertical wells where the air is piped through. The process stimulates aerobic activity and a consequential stabilization of waste. As a result, the process triggers the rate of decomposition.Anaerobic bioreactor landfill achieves waste stabilization by the addition of moisture into the waste material through repeated leachate circulation. The process achieves and maintains optimum moisture level (Hill 340). The process is anaerobic and biodegradation is done in absence of oxygen.

Landfill gas is chemically known as methane is produced in the process. It is safely trapped to prevent greenhouse effect. The gas is used in energy projects.Hybrid bioreactor landfill increases waste degradation using aerobic-anaerobic treatment processes.