PLASTIC WASTE CONVERSION TO LIQUID FUEL: A GREEN TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION.
Abstract
The increasing accumulation of plastic waste poses a significant threat to environmental
sustainability and public health. This study explores the conversion of plastic waste into liquid
fuel through pyrolysis, a thermochemical process that operates in the absence of oxygen. The
project aimed to investigate the feasibility, efficiency, and environmental implications of this
method. A laboratory-scale pyrolysis reactor was used to convert assorted household plastic
waste into fuel oil, with results showing a yield of approximately 81% liquid, 12% solid residue,
and 7% gaseous byproducts. The liquid fuel was further distilled into various fractions including
gasoline, kerosene, diesel, and lubricating oil, each with comparable properties to commercial
petroleum products. Through detailed literature review and experimentation, the study concludes
that pyrolysis presents a promising avenue for managing plastic waste while providing
alternative fuel sources. However, the process must overcome challenges such as emission
control, feedstock variability, and economic scalability to reach commercial viability. The
findings support the advancement of circular economy principles and offer practical solutions for
mitigating plastic pollution and energy scarcity.
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