Plastic pyrolysis introduces a new technology for the treatment of waste plastic. Plastic is a convenient and inexpensive product. It has an extremely short lifecycle and can persist for hundreds of years without decomposing. Most plastic ends up in landfills or is discarded. These ways cause severe pollution to land and water bodies and posing a threat to human health. Now, many governments and recyclers are in need of an environmentally friendly and effective method for plastic disposal. Plastic pyrolysis offers a comprehensive solution for the recycling of used plastic.
What is Plastic Pyrolysis?
Plastic pyrolysis refers to the chemical reaction process in which waste plastic is transformed into oil and other valuable compounds (combustible gas) under high temperature and low oxygen conditions. The content of oil produced during plastic pyrolysis varies with increasing temperature, typically not exceeding 400 degrees Celsius. Low-temperature pyrolysis is employed if the goal is to enhance oil yield. And high-temperature pyrolysis is chosen to increase gas production in the plastic pyrolysis plant.
What is the Process of Plastic Pyrolysis?
Plastic Pretreatment:
Process plastic of suitable types into appropriate feed sizes. Once the treatment is complete, the plastic will be conveyed to the main furnace.
Plastic Pyrolysis:
When the temperature in the main furnace reaches 180 degrees Celsius, oil and gas production begins. A significant amount of oil and gas is generated when the temperature reaches 280-350 degrees Celsius.
Plastic Pyrolysis Oil Collection:
After the gas undergoes condensation, the liquefied gas becomes pyrolysis oil. After undergoing treatment in the catalytic tower, the problem of condensation and liquefaction of plastic waxy substances in the pyrolysis oil can be improved. The pyrolysis oil is collected in an oil tank.
Syn-gas Recycling:
Gas that cannot be liquefied, after desulfurization through water sealing, can be used as heating fuel for the combustion chamber.
Emission Gas Treatment:
The exhaust gas from the main furnace, after cooling and dust removal, is emitted in compliance with standards. An advanced exhaust gas dust removal system can ensure compliance with European emission standards.
Catalytic Plastic Pyrolysis – Special Technology
The detailed process of plastic pyrolysis is from plastic pretreatment to emission gas treatment. It underscores the comprehensive nature of this recycling method. The integration of catalytic plastic pyrolysis technology further enhances the efficiency of the process. This addresses issues such as clogging of plastic waxy substances and contributes to the overall success of the operation. This technology in plastic to oil plant mainly involves catalytic tower and catalysts. Both of these are our patents. Please take a look at the catalytic tower.
Acceptable Raw Materials for Plastic Pyrolysis
Plastics come in various types. Among them, chlorinated and oxygen-containing plastics are not recommended for pyrolysis as the final treatment. The acceptable and unacceptable raw materials highlight the importance of responsible waste management practices, with emphasis on avoiding materials that can compromise the safety and efficiency of the pyrolysis process. Please see the detailed classification.
Acceptable Raw Materials:
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polystyrene (PS or Styrofoam)
- Other
Unacceptable Raw Materials:
- Polyethylene Terephthalate (PVC): It contains chlorine. When PVC is treated with pyrolysis, hydrogen chloride will corrode the machine. Additionally, harmful gases such as dioxins are released into the exhaust.
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PET): Low oil yield, and PET releases oxygen during the pyrolysis process, posing a safety hazard.
What Can be Obtained from Plastic Pyrolysis?
Plastic pyrolysis is a process that transforms plastic waste into valuable products. It offers an innovative solution to address the environmental challenges posed by plastic pollution. Through this method, various outputs are obtained, including fuel oil, carbon black, and syngas. plastic pyrolysis aids in minimizing the environmental impact of plastic waste by converting it into useful materials. Thus, this presentes a sustainable approach to managing plastic disposal and fosters a circular economy.
- Plastic Pyrolysis Oil (Liquid): The fuel from plastic pyrolysis consists of components such as alkanes, aromatics, olefins, etc. It has a high calorific value.
- Synthesis Gas: Synthesis gas includes hydrogen, hydrocarbon gases, and carbon monoxide.
Case Stories of Plastic Pyrolysis
As the technology continues to gain traction, stories from around the world showcase successful plastic pyrolysis initiatives. It emphasizes its potential as a global solution to plastic pollution.
8t/d Plastic Pyrolysis Project in Netherlands in 2022
12-16t/d Plastic Pyrolysis Project to Croatia in 2023
Video of Plastic Pyrolysis
Plastic pyrolysis emerges as a promising and innovative solution to address the pressing environmental issues associated with plastic pollution. The conventional challenges of plastic waste disposal includes extended decomposition periods and adverse effects on ecosystems. They are effectively tackled through this advanced technology. By subjecting waste plastic to high-temperature, low-oxygen conditions, plastic pyrolysis transforms it into valuable resources, including fuel oil, synthesis gas, and carbon black. This process provides an eco-friendly alternative to conventional disposal methods. And it also contributes to the establishment of a circular economy by converting plastic waste into useful materials.
As the technology continues to gain traction, stories from around the world showcase successful plastic pyrolysis initiatives. It emphasizes its potential as a global solution to plastic pollution. Please see this video of plastic to oil in Indonesia.
Preparation for Plastic Pyrolysis
Plastic pyrolysis involves more than just plastic pyrolysis reactor. Before initiating this project, recyclers need to undertake extensive preparatory work to ensure the smooth progress and operation of the project.
- Project Research: Understanding the feasibility and profitability of the project. Through researching the local market trends for raw materials and end products, recyclers need to ensure the project’s purpose (recovery and profitability).
- Raw Materials: Recyclers need to find a stable and cost-effective source for raw materials.
- Certificates and Permits: Recyclers need to apply for and prepare a series of certificates and permits to ensure the environmental sustainability and compliance of the project.
- Factory: Plastic pyrolysis requires a suitable location. Recyclers need to have the operational rights, land rights, and construction rights for the factory.
- Funding: Recyclers can choose an appropriate plastic pyrolysis solution and equipment based on budget considerations.
Solution for Plastic Pyrolysis
In essence, plastic pyrolysis provides an answer to the environmental challenges posed by plastic waste. It also represents a hope for a more sustainable and responsible approach to plastic disposal. As governments, recyclers, and industries continue to embrace this technology. The aim towards a cleaner, greener planet takes a significant step forward. Pyrolysis provides that innovation and conscientious practices can reshape the future of waste management. Contact us for solutions of plastic pyrolysis.
