Catalytic Pyrolysis of Waste Tyre Rubber into Hydrocarbons Via Base Catalysts

Abstract

<em>The waste tyres represent a source of energy and valuable hydrocarbon products. Waste tyres were pyrolysed catalytically in a batch reactor under atmospheric pressure. The effects of basic catalysts (MgO and CaCO₃) were studied on the pyrolysis products. The distribution ratio of gas, liquid and char with MgO and CaCO₃ were 24.4:39.8:35.8 wt % and 32.5:32.2:35.2 wt % respectively at 350</em><em>°</em><em>C for 2hr catalytic pyrolysis. The physical and chemical properties of the pyrolzed products obtained were characterized. Both catalysts produced 25 % wt of aliphatic hydrocarbons but with the use of magnesium</em><em>oxide the aromatic hydrocarbons</em><em>increased (55 %) and polar hydrocarbons decreased (20 %) as compared to calcium carbonate catalyst (50 % aromatic and 25 % polar hydrocarbons). As far as the distillation data and fuel tests are concerned, the oil fractions with both catalysts fulfill the present specifications of diesel fuel commercial products.</em>