Feedstock and optimal operation for plastics to fuel conversion in pyrolysis

Abstract

This chapter discusses one of the main technologies and focus of various research groups around the world concerned with plastics transformation to energy, fuel, and chemicals. This chapter details the thermo-chemical treatment process of pyrolysis, which is discussed in great depth within this work. The influence of various operating conditions is detailed as well. What makes this chapter quite unique is that it illustrates the opportunities that this process presents. It shows how certain parameters can influence the performance of pyrolysis, and how certain modes of operation are preferred to others when different types of plastics are being treated. It showcases the influence of the operational parameters that one should consider when pyrolysis is in question, from operating pressure, to temperature, to feedstock type manipulation. This chapter can be considered as a comprehensive review that shows how research in this area has advanced in the past few decades, with emphasis on development in pyrolysis technology, and details regarding the unique results and perspectives of its implementation on plastics treatment. It also depicts technologies and techniques on various scales including examples from industry. The chapter also does not neglect advances in this technology, in particular, detailing new and emerging technologies in this field. Also, distinction from other similar technologies is emphasized and presented in depth for the reader’s concern. The products obtained from this process are given, in particular, with respect to various feedstock materials. The chapter also attempts to distinguish the various terms and types of thermal technologies used for plastics treatment by providing the reader with categorization systems and definitions that are common in this area of study.