Characterization of Municipal Solid Wastes (MSW) Generated in Bayero University Kano (BUK) main campus, Kano, Nigeria

Generally, the utilization of any given substance as a fuel is preceded by its classification and standardization. However, Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is a difficult fuel in terms of generic characterization. Therefore, as a prelude to the utilization of a given MSW generated from a particular location as a fuel, the MSW must be characterized in cognizance of the area's geography and demography. The characterization study of the municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in Bayero University Kano (BUK) main campus, Kano, Nigeria was carried out within the permanent site of the university as the study area. Using ASTM standards, samples were randomly drawn from drums of MSW located at designated points and characterized in terms of; the constituent components, bulk density, and proximate analysis. The results of the study revealed that the MSW generated within the study area is composed of 55.85% organic content and 24.99% plastics with the remainder being 19.16% of inorganics and other waste. It was established that the MSW has a bulk density of 270 kg/m3 . The proximate analysis indicated; 40.28% moisture content, 46.06% volatile matter, 4.52% ash content, and 9.14% fixed carbon. The results obtained indicatd that the MSW generated from the study area can be considered as a potential complementary fuel. It is recommended that a further study should be carried out to establish its thermal properties.