Thermal value makes tires a decent fuel for utilities

This paper reports that there is a use for old tires; and power plants stand to gain operating, economic and public relations benefits by converting them to fuel. A major reason for their value is that fuel derived from waste tires (TDF) has a thermal value of 12,000 to 16,000 Btu/lb. Although most fuel handling system and utility boilers can accommodate TDF, a few issues remain to be resolved. These include a consistent and economic supply of tires, safe burns, and agreement between regulators and utilities. Assuming that these issues can be resolved, utilities stand to cash in on a rich fuel source and earn community recognition for helping to solve a nagging solid waste disposal problem