Production of Liquid Fuel from Polystyrene Waste: Process Optimization and Characterization of Pyrolyzates

Pyrolysis of waste polystyrene in the presence of natural clay was carried out in an indigenously made pyrolyzer from 340 to 420 degrees C in nitrogen atmosphere. Temperature and time were optimized, and it was observed that 410 degrees C and 60 min are the optimum reaction temperature and time for maximum liquid fuel yield of 86.68%. Pyrolyzates formed were collected and analyzed using GC/MS. The gaseous fraction was found to contain hydrocarbons ranging from C-1-C-5, with ethene, ethane, and butane as major components, while the liquid fraction was mainly composed of aromatics, alkanes, and alkenes. The presence of some oxygenated components in the oil may be attributed to the additives used during processing of polystyrene or due to contamination. Fuel properties of the liquid fraction obtained were compared with commercial fuel and showed good resemblance with gasoline and diesel oil and, therefore, have substantial benefits for industrial and domestic use.

Automated summary

Pyrolysis of waste polystyrene in the presence of natural clay at 410 degrees C and 60 min produced a maximum liquid fuel yield of 86.68%. The pyrolyzates contained hydrocarbons ranging from C1-C5 in the gaseous fraction and aromatics, alkanes, and alkenes in the liquid fraction. The fuel properties of the liquid fraction resembled gasoline and diesel oil, making it suitable for industrial and domestic use.