Can municipal refuse fuel cement kilns? Energy shortages indicate need for research programs

It is doubtful that cement kilns can compete successfully with the larger capacity, more urban located incineration plants for the R. D. F. fuel. In special cases, a long range program of mutual benefit with the community might result. The many complications entailed make converting a cement kiln to a mixed diet of R. D. F. and fossil fuel economically doubtful. In addition, the approaching shortages of basic raw materials will dictate increasing concern for total recovery and recycling of most ingredients presently found in municipal refuse. Fluctuating economics in the wood and cellulose industries may provide too little stability for capital expenditures required to convert cement kilns to R. D. F. consumers.