Catalytic pyrolysis is a technique used to convert plastic waste into liquid oil and other valuable products. It involves the use of a modified natural zeolite (NZ) catalyst, which has been enhanced through thermal and acidic activation. The catalytic pyrolysis process is most effective for polystyrene (PS) plastic waste, resulting in the highest percentage of liquid oil compared to polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) plastics. The chemical composition of the pyrolysis oil is analyzed using GC-MS, which reveals a high aromatic content along with some aliphatic and other hydrocarbon compounds. FT-IR analysis also confirms the presence of aromatic and other hydrocarbon functional groups.
The liquid oil produced through catalytic pyrolysis has a higher heating value (HHV) similar to that of conventional diesel, ranging from 41.7 to 44.2 MJ/kg. This makes it suitable for various energy and transportation applications after further treatment and refining. The production of liquid oil from plastic waste through catalytic pyrolysis is a step towards developing pyrolysis-based biorefineries, which have the potential to convert waste into energy and other valuable products, contributing to circular economies.
There are, however, technical, operational, and socio-economic challenges that need to be addressed in order to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of biorefineries.
On a related note, microwave-assisted pyrolysis is another process that can be used to recycle a variety of waste fractions such as tires, sewage sludge, agricultural waste, waste wood, electronic scrap, cables, and plastic waste. This process utilizes microwave energy to facilitate the pyrolysis of these waste materials.
Pyrolysis itself is the thermal decomposition of carbonaceous materials in the absence of oxygen, typically carried out at high temperatures between 300 and 900 °C. It can be applied to any organic (carbon-based) product and can turn biomasses, tires, and plastics into renewable products. Pyrolysis is different from combustion or incineration as it is more environmentally friendly. The process involves exposing the material to high temperatures, causing chemical and physical separation into different molecules. This results in the formation of new molecules, often with superior characteristics compared to the original residue.
Pyrolysis has various applications and markets. The products obtained from pyrolysis can be used in the circular and green economy, as well as traditional markets and industries such as the energy sector. It offers a way to bring greater value to common materials and waste, making it an important process for today's industry. In the case of solid fuels, pyrolysis can be used to produce charcoal or a liquid product known as bio-oil, which can be used as a substitute for fuel oil or as a feedstock for synthetic gasoline or diesel fuel production.
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