A mixed-integer linear model for optimal processing and transport of secondary materials

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A mixed-integer linear model for optimal processing and transport of secondary materials

Wang, C.H. / Even, J.C. jun. / Adams, S.K.

In every area of materials recovery management, transportation is an important component of waste management systems. Affordable transportation methods to move material from seller to buyer should be carefully investigated. The current study examines the possibility of installing intermediate processing stations between sellers and buyers. Intermediate processing stations are needed to assure quality of the recycled paper and cardboard and to collect and densify these materials for economical transport by truck or rail. The approach used emphasizes the application of a mixed-integer linear programming model for transportation of recovered paper. The research was focused on expressing the transportation optimization problem as a linear programming problem. Determination of optimal locations for the processing stations is emphasized. For this study, the available modes of transportation to recycling markets included semi-trailer truck and rail. The computerized transportation model presented is a general model applicable to either mode and can be modified to evaluate relevant secondary materials. The result of this research is an optimal transportation system model for the movement of recovered paper from selected sources in the State of Iowa to anticipated markets within the state. In most cases, truck transportation is the most practical mode because of its flexibility in routing and unit hauling capacity.