Plastic Recycling, Carbon Capture and Disaster Relief through Pyrolysis

Fuel scarcity creates additional hardships for those affected by a disaster. Additionally, plastic pollution, which causes great damage to the environment and human health – especially in underdeveloped areas – can be exacerbated during disasters. Chemical pyrolysis is a solution to both problems. Through pyrolysis, plastic waste can be used as fuel generation feedstock.

The project is a small-scale pyrolysis plant that safely converts common plastics like polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene into a diesel-like liquid that can be used in place of conventional fuel. The high-temperature, oxygen-free reactor thermally decomposes shredded plastic waste into solid carbon char and heavy hydrocarbon vapor, which is fed into a heat exchanger and cooled until the heaviest hydrocarbons precipitate as a liquid. The plant then collects this liquid and flares the remaining gas to stabilize hazardous byproducts. Thermocouples monitor system temperature and pressure, which are displayed on a control panel to ensure safety and monitor reaction progress.

This prototype serves as a compelling proof of concept, showcasing the transformative potential of pyrolysis in mitigating plastic waste in the environment while simultaneously yielding a valuable end product. The plant’s portability and simplicity also enhance its ability to be deployed for humanitarian efforts that produce extensive plastic waste.