(573a) Analysis of Plastic-Derived Fuel Oil Produced from Plastic Waste Via Slow Pyrolysis Operations

A viable approach for managing waste plastic accumulation in resource-constrained, rural economies is the conversion of waste plastic to plastic-derived fuel oil (PDFO) via slow pyrolysis. Utilizing localized collection, sorting, and conversion of waste plastic by the application of appropriate technology, PDFO can be readily produced in rural economies by local entrepreneurs. However, when implementing slow‑pyrolysis via appropriate technology, a challenge faced by small-scale entrepreneurs is the composition of the product fuel blend. The PDFO produced can vary in composition from a mixture that is more like kerosene to a mixture that is more like diesel. Due to capital constraints and lack of sophisticated process control equipment, the average chain length of PDFO blends produced via appropriate technology is difficult to ascertain. This presentation will focus on research conducted to experimentally determine the impact of temperature, reaction time, and plastic type on the composition of PDFO produced under appropriate technology conditions. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis have been used to determine the volatility and chain lengths of PDFO produced under various operating conditions and for different plastic types and blends. The results of this research can then be used to optimize production of PDFO from plastic waste using slow pyrolysis in developing regions.