Pirólise de resíduo industrial de laminado de polietileno com barreira de alumínio

Abstract

The increasing production of packaging has accentuated the issue of plastic pollution, emerging as a significant obstacle to sustainable development. Among the various types of packaging in the market, polyethylene (PE) and aluminum (Al) laminated films have contributed to advancements in product packaging but also pose an environmental threat. Pyrolysis emerges as an efficient alternative for the valorization of plastic waste, seeking to address the rising scenario of an energy crisis. In this study, the characterization, and the conventional and catalytic pyrolysis at 600°C of PE-Al laminate waste was investigated, using tungsten trioxide (WO3) supported on rice husk ash. Analyses revealed a high volatile content (82.464%), low ash content (17.528%) and fixed carbon content (0.008%), indicating significant potential in the production of liquids after pyrolysis. Thermal analysis of the material demonstrated plastic degradation between 444°C and 492°C, with a calorific value of 31.759 MJ/kg. Catalytic pyrolysis resulted in an increase in the production of light hydrocarbons, predominantly alkenes, from 15 to 38%, such as gasoline, diesel, and kerosene. In summary, the study presented excellent potential for the pyrolysis of PE-Al waste in the production of high-value-added fuels.