Investigating the impact of microwave and conventional heating sources on the co-pyrolysis of plastics with non-biomass materials

• Published in: Journal of analytical and applied pyrolysis 2024-01, Vol.177, p.106364, Article 106364
• Main Authors: Mistry, Chintan R., Pandian, Sivakumar, Choksi, Himanshu
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Co-conversion; Non-biodegradable waste; Non-biomass; Plastic waste; Pyrolysis; Thermal reaction
• ISSN: 0165-2370; 1873-250X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jaap.2024.106364

Plastic is the primary concern as global waste, and its production is increasing daily because of its usability, accessibility and feasibility. There are many ways by which we can reduce the use of plastic. Although pyrolysis is one of the ways, due to its many disadvantages, co-pyrolysis is used . Plastic co-pyrolysis is performed with different types of materials that have been studied earlier. However, this study focuses on the co-pyrolysis of plastic and low-value hydrocarbon, i.e., non-biomass materials like naphtha, shale oil, heavy oil, vacuum residue, coal, etc. Co-pyrolysis is compared to the yield per cent of the gas/oil-wax/tar/residue for different materials. The products of pyrolysis are assessed for quality parameters. The synergetic outcome of co-pyrolysis is also studied, with its advantages and disadvantages. Moreover, the feedstock suitable to get the desired product and its challenges are studied. •Review on Co-pyrolysis of plastics with non-biomass materials.•Comparison between conventional co-pyrolysis and microwave co-pyrolysis.•Synergistic effects of co-pyrolysis are examined, along with advantages and disadvantages.•Investigation encompasses an assessment of feedstock suitability.•Challenges associated with co-pyrolysis to achieve the desired product.