PRODUCTION OF FUEL (PETROL) FROM PLASTIC WASTE

ABSTRACT The increasing accumulation of plastic waste poses significant environmental and public health challenges globally, necessitating innovative recycling and waste management solutions. One promising approach is the conversion of plastic waste into fuel, specifically petrol, through pyrolysis—a thermochemical decomposition process that breaks down long-chain polymers into smaller hydrocarbon molecules in the absence of oxygen. This project explores the feasibility of producing petrol from plastic waste, focusing on optimizing pyrolysis conditions (temperature, catalyst use, and reaction time) to maximize fuel yield and quality. The methodology involves collecting and sorting plastic waste (primarily polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene), followed by shredding and subjecting it to controlled pyrolysis at temperatures between 350°C and 500°C. A catalyst, such as zeolite or silica-alumina, is employed to enhance the breakdown efficiency and improve the quality of the resulting fuel. The pyrolytic vapors are condensed into liquid fuel, which is then distilled and purified to meet standard petrol specifications. Key findings indicate that plastic-derived petrol exhibits properties comparable to conventional petrol, including high energy content and suitable octane ratings. The process not only mitigates plastic pollution but also offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuel dependency, contributing to circular economy principles. Challenges such as process scalability, economic viability, and emissions control are discussed, along with recommendations for future research. This project underscores the potential of plastic-to-fuel conversion as a dual solution to waste management and energy sustainability.