Sludge drying is the process of further reducing the moisture content of dewatered sewage sludge. By removing water from the sludge, the volume is significantly reduced, making storage, transport and further processing more efficient.

A sludge drying greenhouse uses solar radiation and ventilation to evaporate moisture from the sludge. In addition, many installations automatically move or turn the sludge, which helps the material dry more evenly. Depending on the design, additional heat can also be used to accelerate the process.

Drying sludge strongly reduces its volume, which means less transport is required and the costs for storage and processing may decrease. Dried sludge can also be reused or processed further more easily.

Yes. Residual heat from sources such as waste processing plants, power stations or industrial processes can be used to support the drying process. This reduces the need for primary energy sources and can contribute to more sustainable sludge processing.

Residual heat is energy released by industrial processes that would otherwise be lost. By using this heat for sludge drying, the energy consumption of the installation can be reduced. STOWA research shows that sludge drying with residual heat can be a sustainable solution, depending on the local situation.

Yes. A sludge drying greenhouse can also rely solely on solar radiation and ventilation. The availability of residual heat can speed up the drying process, but it is not always necessary. The most suitable solution depends on factors such as climate, available space and the required drying capacity.

A sludge drying installation places high demands on the structure. High humidity, ventilation requirements and a long service life call for a durable steel structure and a reliable greenhouse roof system. The structure forms the basis for an efficient and continuous drying process.

No. Alcomij supplies high-quality greenhouse structures and aluminium greenhouse roof systems for sludge drying projects. The complete sludge drying installation is realised by specialised greenhouse builders and system integrators.

Depending on the project requirements, greenhouse roof systems can be designed with space for integrated solar panels. This allows the available roof surface to be used for sustainable energy generation alongside the drying process.

Sludge drying greenhouses are used by wastewater treatment plants, water authorities, industrial wastewater treatment facilities and companies where sludge processing is part of the production process.