Evaluation of liquid fuel obtained by thermal pyrolysis processes in an experimental reactor: Case: HDPE oil container
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37135/ns.01.18.02Keywords:
Pyrolysis, HDPE, Energy recovery, Waste treatmentAbstract
This study evaluated liquid products obtained from the thermal pyrolysis of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) motor oil containers in an experimental reactor to determine their physicochemical properties and calorific value. An experimental design was used with shredded HDPE feed, temperature and pressure control, and a condensation train. Product evaluation included API gravity, sulfur content, flash point, and higher heating value (HHV) in accordance with ASTM standards (D1298, D4294, D92, and D4809). The tests showed high conversions to liquid fraction for HDPE (78–89%), higher than for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) under comparable conditions. The distillate had an API gravity of 27.5–28.4, sulfur content of 186.6–327.9 mg/kg, a flash point of approximately 30 °C, and a HHV of approximately 46 MJ/kg. These results confirm the energy viability of pyrolytic oil and demonstrate that reducing the reactor load improves conversion via heat-transfer effects. It is concluded that the fuel requires conditioning (to raise the flash point and reduce sulfur content) before direct use. Finally, local HDPE container waste can be converted, under controlled conditions, into a high-energy liquid fuel, providing a feasible route for waste valorization and energy recovery in the local and regional context.
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