Moscow:Russian scientists at the Institute of Petroleum Chemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences' Siberian Branch have developed a groundbreaking method to convert plastic waste into fuel. The process involves heating plastic waste to 475 degrees Celsius, effectively breaking down long hydrocarbon chains to transform solid plastic into a liquid product.
According to Qatar News Agency, the technology, as detailed in the Science in Siberia bulletin, enhances fuel production efficiency by utilizing solid carbon residues, or coke, as a catalyst in the reactor. This innovation results in a nearly waste-free production process that also improves gasoline yields.
The method is versatile, capable of producing various fuels, including hydrotreated diesel that meets winter Class 0 specifications, suitable for usage in severe conditions. Additionally, the absence of sulfur in plastic reduces the atmospheric impact by preventing the formation of hydrogen sulfide during production.
Researchers highlighted that coke serves a dual purpose as both a catalyst and an adsorbent. This dual functionality not only aids in addressing plastic waste but also creates a valuable resource, demonstrating a significant step forward in sustainable fuel production.