Exploring the Feasibility of Pyrolysis for Polystyrene Plastic Waste Conversion into Alternative Fuel

Abstract

Efforts to manage polystyrene (PS) plastic waste involve its conversion into oil or fuel through pyrolysis. This study investigates the yield and characteristics of oil derived from pyrolysis of PS plastic (styrofoam) at different temperatures (400°C, 450°C, and 500°C). The physical characteristics measured include specific gravity, calorific value, flash point, pour point, and kinematic viscosity, while the chemical composition of the oil is analyzed using GC-MS. The results indicate that the oil yield remains relatively constant across the temperature range, with values of 0.89 ml/g at 400°C, 0.905 ml/g at 450°C, and 0.915 ml/g at 500°C. The oil produced at these temperatures has properties closest to gasoline. This research demonstrates that pyrolysis of PS plastic waste is an effective method for waste treatment and oil production, with significant potential for industrial application.