Tech Team · Kintek Solution

The pyrolysis of waste tires is a thermochemical process that converts discarded tires into valuable products such as pyrolysis oil, carbon black, steel wire, and gas. This process involves heating the tires in an oxygen-free environment to break down their complex polymer structures into simpler components. The key steps include tire pre-treatment, loading into a pyrolysis reactor, heating to induce depolymerization, condensation of vapors into liquid oil, and collection of by-products. The resulting products have applications in energy generation, industrial processes, and material reuse, making tire pyrolysis an environmentally and economically beneficial recycling method.

Key Points Explained:

1. Pre-Treatment of Waste Tires

   • Before pyrolysis, waste tires undergo pre-treatment to prepare them for the process. This may include:
     • Shredding: Tires are cut into smaller pieces to ensure uniform heating and efficient processing.
     • Magnetic Separation: Steel wires embedded in the tires are removed using magnetic separators for recycling.
     • Drying: Moisture is removed to prevent unwanted reactions during pyrolysis.

2. Loading into the Pyrolysis Reactor

   • The pre-treated tires are loaded into a pyrolysis reactor, which is a sealed, oxygen-free chamber designed to withstand high temperatures.
   • The reactor is placed inside a furnace, and oxygen is evacuated to create an inert environment, preventing combustion.

3. Heating and Depolymerization

   • The reactor is heated to temperatures typically ranging from 200°C to 900°C, depending on the desired products and process efficiency.
   • During this stage, the rubber polymers in the tires undergo thermal cracking or depolymerization, breaking down into smaller molecules. This process generates:
     • Pyrolysis Gas: A mixture of hydrocarbons and other gases.
     • Pyrolysis Oil: Condensable hydrocarbons in liquid form.
     • Solid Residues: Carbon black and any remaining steel wires.

4. Condensation and Separation

   • The pyrolysis gas is passed through a heat exchanger or condenser, where the condensable hydrocarbons are cooled and collected as pyrolysis oil.
   • Non-condensable gases, such as methane and hydrogen, are desulfurized and cleaned before being stored in a gas pressure tank for later use as fuel.

5. Collection of Final Products

   • Pyrolysis Oil: This liquid product can be used as fuel for heating, power generation, or further refined into diesel or other industrial oils.
   • Carbon Black: A solid residue that can be used as a reinforcing agent in rubber products, pigments, or as a raw material in manufacturing.
   • Steel Wire: Recovered during pre-treatment, it can be recycled for use in construction or other industries.
   • Non-Condensable Gas: Used as an energy source to power the pyrolysis process or for other industrial applications.

6. Environmental and Economic Benefits

   • Tire pyrolysis reduces the volume of waste tires in landfills, mitigating environmental pollution.
   • The process generates valuable products that can replace virgin materials, contributing to a circular economy.
   • It provides a sustainable solution for managing non-biodegradable rubber waste while reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

7. Applications of Pyrolysis Products

   • Pyrolysis Oil: Used as an alternative fuel in boilers, furnaces, and power plants. It can also be refined into higher-value products like diesel or gasoline.
   • Carbon Black: Utilized in the production of tires, rubber goods, and coatings.
   • Steel Wire: Recycled into new steel products, reducing the need for raw material extraction.
   • Non-Condensable Gas: Provides a renewable energy source for the pyrolysis process or other industrial needs.

By following these steps, the pyrolysis process effectively transforms waste tires into useful resources, offering a sustainable and economically viable solution for tire waste management.

Summary Table:

Step	Description
Pre-Treatment	Shredding, magnetic separation, and drying of waste tires.
Loading into Reactor	Tires are placed in a sealed, oxygen-free pyrolysis reactor.
Heating & Depolymerization	Reactor heated to 200°C–900°C, breaking down rubber polymers into smaller molecules.
Condensation & Separation	Pyrolysis gas is condensed into oil; non-condensable gases are cleaned and stored.
Final Products	Pyrolysis oil, carbon black, steel wire, and non-condensable gas.
Benefits	Reduces landfill waste, generates valuable products, and supports sustainability.
Applications	Fuel generation, rubber production, steel recycling, and renewable energy.

Discover how tire pyrolysis can benefit your business—contact us today to learn more!