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Parameters of Pyrolytic Oil Produced from Plastic Thermal Pyrolysis

2025-04-22 16:29:03

Pyrolytic oil (or pyrolysis oil) derived from plastic thermal pyrolysis is a complex mixture whose properties vary significantly depending on the feedstock composition, pyrolysis process (temperature, catalyst, reaction time, etc.), and post-treatment methods. Below are the key parameters and characteristics of typical pyrolytic oil:

Plastic pyrolysis oil


1. Basic Physicochemical Properties

ParameterTypical Range/ValueDescription
AppearanceDark brown to black viscous liquidMay appear turbid if solid particles are present.
Density (20°C)0.8-1.1 g/cm³Similar to diesel but higher than gasoline.
Viscosity (40°C)2-50 cStHigher than conventional fuels; may require preheating or dilution for engine use.
Flash Point40-80°CFlammable but safer than gasoline.
Calorific Value (LHV)35-45 MJ/kg~85-95% of diesel (~42 MJ/kg); can be used directly as fuel.
Water Content<5 wt%High moisture reduces heating value and accelerates corrosion.

2. Chemical Composition

ComponentContent Range (wt%)Characteristics & Impact
Alkanes + Alkenes20-40%Similar to gasoline/diesel components; determines combustion performance.
Aromatics15-35%Benzene, toluene, etc.; may increase emission toxicity.
Oxygenates5-20%Ketones, aldehydes, carboxylic acids (e.g., acetic acid); causes acidity (pH 2-5).
Nitrogen/Sulfur Compounds<2%Depends on feedstock (e.g., PVC produces HCl; nitrogen-containing plastics generate HCN).
Solid Residues0.1-5%Carbon black, catalyst particles; may clog filters.

3. Key Influencing Factors

  • Feedstock Impact:

    • Polyolefins (PE/PP): High alkane content in oil; calorific value >40 MJ/kg.

    • PS (Polystyrene): Yields oil rich in aromatics (styrene monomer up to 60%).

    • PET/PVC: High oxygen (PET) or chlorine (PVC) content; requires dechlorination.

  • Process Impact:

    • Low-Temp Pyrolysis (400-500°C): More heavy oil, higher viscosity.

    • Catalytic Pyrolysis (e.g., ZSM-5): Increases light oil fraction and alkene content.


4. Application Limitations & Treatment Recommendations

  • Fuel Use:

    • Requires desulfurization and dechlorination before use in diesel engines/boilers to avoid corrosion and dioxin formation.

    • Can be blended with conventional fuels (typically ≤20%) to reduce viscosity.

  • Chemical Feedstock:

    • Distillation can extract monomers (e.g., benzene, toluene), but economic viability depends on purity.

  • Environmental Risks:

    • Contains PAHs, heavy metals (if pigments are present in feedstock); must comply with standards like GB 18484 (Hazardous Waste Incineration Pollution Control).


5. Standard Testing Methods

  • Proximate Analysis: ASTM D5373 (elemental analysis), ASTM D93 (flash point).

  • Pollutant Limits: EN 590 (sulfur <10 ppm), GB 19147 (chlorine <50 ppm).

For precise data, lab-scale pyrolysis tests (e.g., TGA + GC/MS) are recommended based on target plastic composition.


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