Eco-friendly Pyrolysis Process Developed for Plastic Recycling

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A joint research team of the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) and the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB) announced on Oct. 24 a groundbreaking achievement in the production of high-value plastic raw materials through an eco-friendly pyrolysis process for waste plastics.

This innovative approach, developed by Dr. Jeon Sang-koo of KIER and Dr. Ahn Jung-oh of KRIBB, promises to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower the cost of plastic production.

The production of plastics traditionally involves the use of fossil fuels such as petroleum and natural gas, processes that are both energy-intensive and environmentally damaging. The crushing and processing of waste plastics further exacerbate the problem by releasing wastewater and harmful substances.

In contrast, pyrolysis—a chemical recycling method that emits no greenhouse gases—has emerged as a promising solution. Pyrolysis involves heating mixed plastics in a high-temperature, oxygen-free environment to break them down into gas, liquid, and solid components.

However, the conventional pyrolysis process has its limitations. Only about 30% of the pyrolysis oil produced is recycled as plastic raw material, while the remainder is used as low-grade fuel, which still emits greenhouse gases. To address this issue, the research team enhanced the efficiency of pyrolysis by combining the existing chemical process with a biological reaction process. The team refined the remaining pyrolysis oil into normal paraffin, a hydrocarbon compound with a straight-chain structure, by reacting it with a catalyst at a high temperature of 400 degrees filled with hydrogen. This process removed impurities and toxicity, making the normal paraffin suitable as a microbial feed. The microbes then produced high-value plastic raw material dicarboxylic acid from the normal paraffin.

Dr. Jeon from KIER explained the significance of this advancement: "We can recycle 30% of the pyrolysis oil used as low-grade fuel into plastic raw materials, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases. We are currently conducting research to synthesize plastics using the produced dicarboxylic acid and plan to transfer the technology."

This new process could reduce the cost of producing plastic raw materials by up to 40% compared to traditional petrochemical production processes. The research team's success not only offers a more sustainable method for recycling waste plastics but also aligns with global sustainability goals, such as those outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The current status of the project is promising, with ongoing research focused on synthesizing plastics using the produced dicarboxylic acid. The team also plans to transfer the technology, potentially revolutionizing the plastic recycling industry and contributing to a more sustainable circular economy.

Plastic pollution is a global issue that affects oceans, wildlife, and human health. Traditional plastic production and waste management methods contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. Pyrolysis technology, combined with innovative chemical and biological processes, offers a more environmentally friendly alternative.

Courtesy: www.businesskorea.co.kr