Tech Team · Kintek Solution

The pyrolysis of rubber primarily yields three main products: rubber pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and combustible gas (syngas). These products are formed through the thermal decomposition of rubber in the absence of oxygen. The proportions of these products can vary depending on the type of rubber and the specific conditions of the pyrolysis process, such as temperature and heating rate. Rubber pyrolysis oil is a valuable liquid product with high calorific value, often used as a fuel or chemical feedstock. Carbon black is a solid residue that can be reused in various industrial applications, including tire manufacturing. Combustible gas, consisting of gases like carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and methane, can be utilized for energy generation. Additionally, in some cases, steel wire (from tires) and other residues may also be produced.

Key Points Explained:

1. Rubber Pyrolysis Oil:

   • Description: Rubber pyrolysis oil is a liquid product obtained from the pyrolysis of rubber. It has a high calorific value, making it suitable for use as a fuel or as a feedstock in the chemical industry.
   • Applications: This oil can be used in industrial burners, boilers, and as a raw material for producing chemicals. Its composition and properties depend on the type of rubber being pyrolyzed.
   • Yield: For tires, the oil output typically ranges between 35-45% of the total product yield.

2. Carbon Black:

   • Description: Carbon black is a solid residue formed during the pyrolysis process. It is a fine black powder composed primarily of carbon.
   • Applications: Carbon black is widely used as a reinforcing agent in rubber products, including tires. It can also be used in plastics, inks, and coatings.
   • Yield: In the pyrolysis of tires, carbon black constitutes about 30-35% of the total product yield.

3. Combustible Gas (Syngas):

   • Description: Combustible gas, often referred to as syngas, is a mixture of gases produced during pyrolysis. It typically includes carbon monoxide, hydrogen, methane, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
   • Applications: Syngas can be used as a fuel for generating heat or electricity. It is also a valuable feedstock for chemical synthesis.
   • Yield: The yield of combustible gas from tire pyrolysis is usually around 8-15% of the total product yield.

4. Steel Wire:

   • Description: In the case of tire pyrolysis, steel wire is a by-product that remains after the rubber has been thermally decomposed.
   • Applications: The steel wire can be recycled and reused in the production of new tires or other steel products.
   • Yield: The steel wire yield from tire pyrolysis is typically between 8-15%.

5. Process Conditions and Yield Variations:

   • Temperature and Heating Rate: The yield and composition of the pyrolysis products can vary significantly depending on the temperature and heating rate used during the process. Higher temperatures generally favor the production of gases, while lower temperatures may result in more liquid and solid products.
   • Type of Rubber: Different types of rubber (e.g., natural rubber, synthetic rubber) can produce slightly different pyrolysis products due to variations in their chemical composition.

6. Environmental and Industrial Significance:

   • Waste Reduction: Pyrolysis is an effective method for recycling rubber waste, particularly tires, which are difficult to dispose of in landfills.
   • Resource Recovery: The process converts waste rubber into valuable products, reducing the need for virgin materials and contributing to a circular economy.
   • Energy Generation: The combustible gas produced can be used to generate energy, making the process self-sustaining and reducing reliance on external energy sources.

In summary, the pyrolysis of rubber is a versatile and environmentally beneficial process that converts waste rubber into valuable products like pyrolysis oil, carbon black, and combustible gas. These products have diverse industrial applications, making rubber pyrolysis an important process in waste management and resource recovery.

Summary Table:

Product	Description	Applications	Yield
Rubber Pyrolysis Oil	High-calorific liquid fuel or chemical feedstock.	Industrial burners, boilers, chemical production.	35-45% (tires)
Carbon Black	Fine black powder, primarily carbon.	Tire manufacturing, plastics, inks, coatings.	30-35% (tires)
Combustible Gas (Syngas)	Mixture of CO, H2, methane, and VOCs.	Fuel for heat/electricity, chemical synthesis.	8-15% (tires)
Steel Wire	By-product from tire pyrolysis.	Recycled for new tires or steel products.	8-15% (tires)

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