THE INVESTIGATION, CONVERSION OF WASTE PLASTICS INTO FUELS

Abstract

This study examines three methods for converting plastic waste into fuel: pyrolysis, catalytic degradation, and
gasification, each offering unique advantages and challenges [1]. Pyrolysis, conducted at temperatures between
370°C and 420°C, effectively reduces plastic waste volume by 50-90%, producing liquid, gaseous, and solid
fuels. Fast pyrolysis, in particular, proves to be the most efficient method due to its high temperatures and short
residence times, allowing energy recovery from renewable sources such as municipal solid waste. Catalytic
degradation, using solid acid catalysts like zeolites and silica-alumina, lowers the activation energy required
for cracking plastics, enabling fuel production at lower temperatures and enhancing the yield of lighter
hydrocarbons. This process shows promise for commercial polymer recycling, though optimization of catalyst
performance is needed for cost-efficiency. Gasification, which involves partial combustion of plastic waste,
generates syngas and other hydrocarbons, offering an alternative to traditional waste incineration with higher
energy recovery and a smaller environmental footprint. By varying parameters such as temperature, catalyst
type, and particle size, all three methods were optimized to maximize fuel production and minimize
environmental impact [2]. The study demonstrates the feasibility of these technologies for sustainable plastic
waste management, with opportunities for further refinement to improve efficiency and reduce costs.