News
25th November 2025
In September 2024 Wouter Meynendonckx received the Carsten Spohn Award for his research focused on unravelling the complex interdependencies in Waste-to-Energy plants between process variables in the central combustion control system and the chemical compositions of gasses and ashes. As part of the Award Wouter was invited to do an internship in one of volunteering CEWEP Member plants across Europe.
Please scroll below for Wouter’s own recount of his experience.
“After previously visiting the HERA Bologna Waste-to-Energy installation during a PREWIN network conference, I found it worthwhile to return for a more in-depth look at the process.
Marco Barbieri, process engineer, welcomed me in true Italian style—with espresso and pastry. The day began with a guided tour of the facility, from the waste bunker to the combustion furnace and the flue gas cleaning system. It’s always impressive to witness the scale of the waste bunker and observe how the crane operators manage incoming waste through homogenisation and mixing.
As my research focuses on optimising combustion control with respect to the release of HCl and SO₂ from waste, I was particularly interested in learning about HERA Bologna’s standard combustion settings and how they manage waste combustion on the grate. The visit concluded with a look at their flue gas cleaning system, which remains a highlight due to its complexity and effectiveness.
Marco and I exchanged thoughts on my research article and discussed potential benefits for HERA Bologna. Following the visit, some data was shared, and a preliminary analysis of their combustion control in relation to HCl and SO₂ emissions from the waste layer is expected in the near future. I hadn’t anticipated this opportunity, but it’s a great example of how the industry is open to innovation and actively seeks out industrial research.
A big thank you to Marco and the HERA Bologna team for this insightful and enjoyable experience.”
