Co-Pyrolysis of Biomass with Plastics

Abstract

The recycling of plastics for further uses as raw material is proving to be difficult due to reluctance of relatively conservative industry to receive them, particularly because of high costs involved in recycling and the lack of incentives. The incineration of these plastics is a controversial issue, mainly resulting from the concern in protecting the environment and in reducing the CO₂ emissions. Although PVC-origin plastics are getting less and less in use, their incineration gives rise to the formation of chlorinated hydrocarbons like furans and dioxins, some of which are highly toxic and very hazardous to human health.

An alternative approach to upgrade plastics wastes and their further use could be achieved through the application of liquefaction technology forming liquid and gaseous products.

Studies have been undertaken to pyrolyse plastics alone or together with biomass to produce liquid fuels in the above-named Department. The objective of the introduction of biomass was to make up the variations in the quality of plastics and to guarantee the security of supply in a future commercial unit. The biomass somewhat changed the nature of the liquids formed and there was some char left at the end.