What is the Oil and Gas Content of Waste Plastic Pyrolysis?

Plastic pyrolysis is an innovative chemical process that converts waste plastics into valuable energy under high-temperature, oxygen-free conditions. During this process, long-chain plastic molecules are broken down into smaller molecules, producing hydrocarbon vapors that are then condensed into pyrolysis oil. This technology not only provides an effective solution to plastic pollution but also creates significant economic value. However, the content ratio of oil and gas in plastic pyrolysis products is not constant.

Waste plastic pyrolysis technology

Key Factors Influencing Oil and Gas Content of Waste Plastic Pyrolysis

The oil and gas content produced during pyrolysis depends heavily on the type of plastic being processed. Below is a detailed breakdown of the typical oil and gas yields for common plastics:

Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), and Polyethylene (PE): These plastics yield the highest oil conversion rates. Under optimal conditions, oil yields can reach up to 90%, with gas yields typically ranging from 8% to 12%.

Mixed Plastic Waste: In practical applications, mixed plastic waste is more common. Even with mixed plastics, oil yields can still reach 40%-60%, with gas yields ranging from 10% to 15%.

Other Plastics: Plastics such as PVC and PET have lower oil conversion rates due to their chemical composition. Oil yields for these materials generally fall below 30%, making them less ideal for pyrolysis.

Waste plastic pyrolysis oil yield

Secondly, the oil yield from waste plastic pyrolysis can be affected by the level of impurities present, such as pigments, additives, and contaminants. These substances can negatively impact the efficiency of oil production. Therefore, it's beneficial to pre-treat and clean the waste plastics before pyrolysis to improve oil yield.

Waste plastic pyrolysis pretreatment machines

Moreover, the advancement of pyrolysis technology and the design of pyrolysis equipments play a significant role in the efficiency of the process and the amount of oil produced. For instance, pyrolysis equipments designed by DOING feature a unique negative pressure system. This system not only maximizes the extraction of oil gas but also ensures the safe operation of the equipment and minimizes the risk of flash explosions. Additionally, DOING provides comprehensive technical training for operators to ensure the optimal functioning of the pyrolysis equipment.

DOING waste plastic pyrolysis equipment types

Applications of Pyrolysis Oil and Gas

The pyrolysis oil produced by waste plastic pyrolysis is a versatile fuel with a wide range of industrial applications, including:

Steel mills: Used as a high-energy fuel for smelting processes.

Boiler heating systems: Provides efficient heating solutions for industrial plants. Plastic pyrolysis oil can be used as a supplementary fuel in kilns. Such as glass factories, cement factories, brick factories, aluminum alloy factories, porcelain factories, etc.

Heavy fuel oil generators: Serves as a reliable energy source for power generation.

Applications of waste plastic pyrolysis oil

Combustible gas produced by waste plastic pyrolysis can be reused to heat the pyrolysis reactor. This gas accounts for approximately 10% of the output and significantly reduces external energy consumption and operating costs.

Waste plastic pyrolysis gas recycling devices

Besides the oil and gas content, the waste plastic pyrolysis process also produces carbon black (approximately 30% of the output), a solid residue that can be further processed into construction materials, pigments, or other industrial products.

Waste plastic pyrolysis carbon black usages

Pyrolysis technology provides a sustainable and profitable method for managing plastic waste. By converting waste plastics into high-value energy products, it not only reduces environmental pollution but also creates economic opportunities.As a leading manufacturer of plastic pyrolysis equipment, DOING offers advanced, environmentally friendly pyrolysis equipment tailored to maximize oil and gas yields. Its plastic pyrolysis equipments are equipped with integrated emission treatment systems to ensure compliance with environmental standards and eliminate secondary pollution.

DOING waste plastic pyrolysis equipment environment protection devices

DOING’s technology is specifically optimized for PP, PS, and PE plastics, maintaining high yields even with mixed plastics. The produced oil and carbon black can be sold directly or refined for higher-value applications, saving energy costs by reusing pyrolysis gas. The entire process is clean and safe, thanks to its customized exhaust gas treatment systems. If you want to know more about plastic pyrolysis, please contact us and we will answer your questions in detail.