Intelligent Waste Sorting at Scale: A Blueprint for Zero-Waste Cities

Intelligent Waste Sorting at Scale: A Blueprint for Zero-Waste Cities
This integrated solid waste recycling facility in Eastern China, designed by Keson, represents a technological leap in handling multiple waste streams.

With an annual capacity of 360,000 metric tons—including construction debris, bulky waste, and landscaping organics—it achieves a 95% material recovery rate, setting a new standard for urban circular economy systems.

Technological Edge

AI-Powered Sorting Revolution

KESON’s 10th-generation intelligent sorting system integrates three core innovations that redefine global waste treatment standards:

  • Hyperspectral Detection: Identifies over 200 material types at 8 m/s belt speeds
  • Self-Optimizing Robotics: Adapts picking paths dynamically via real-time waste composition data
  • Predictive Maintenance: IoT-enabled vibration analysis cuts unplanned downtime by 37% (ISO 13374-1)

Modular Lines for Diverse Waste Streams

1. Construction & Demolition Waste

Capacity: 300,000 t/year

Output: 98% pure aggregates (EN 12620 certified)

Key Technologies:

  • Eddy current separators with 92% non-ferrous recovery
  • AI-assisted contaminant removal achieving 99.2% accuracy

2. Bulky Waste

Global Relevance: Tackles mattress and furniture recycling bottlenecks

Technologies:

  • Tungsten carbide hard alloy shredder with 20 t/h throughput, 2000+ hr blade lifespan (under high-impact working conditions)
  • Smart metal recovery using deep learning to identify springs, fasteners

3. Organic Waste Processing

Circular Model: 15-day thermophilic composting at 55–65°C yields fertilizer compliant with EU 2019/1009

Emission Control: 99.5% odor removal via proprietary ion-biofilter systems

Global Impact Metrics

  • Carbon Offset: Cuts 86,000 t CO₂e annually—equivalent to removing 18,700 vehicles from roads
  • Material Recovery: Produces 240,000 t of recycled aggregate—equal to the concrete volume used in 4 Burj Khalifa towers
  • Economic Return: Achieves ROI within 5 years via resource sales and landfill cost avoidance

Why This Matters Globally

This project offers a scalable and replicable model for global megacities aiming for zero-waste targets:

  • Modular Scalability: Customizable from 50,000 to 500,000 t/year capacities
  • Digital Twin Ready: IoT architecture enables cross-border monitoring and real-time analytics
  • Policy-Ready: Fully aligned with EU Waste Framework Directive and UN SDG 12

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Jiangsu Keson Environment Technology Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise specializing in environmental protection, industrial, energy, low-carbon intelligent equipment system R&D, intelligent equipment manufacturing, comprehensive solutions of solid waste low-carbon & resource recovery, and investment,...

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