Can PET be used for pyrolysis? And why is PET not suitable for pyrolysis

While various types of plastics are commonly subjected to pyrolysis, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic stands as an exception, PET cannot be used for pyrolysis, and this article aims to explore the reasons why PET is not suitable for pyrolysis and the environmental considerations associated with its use in the pyrolysis process.
1. Thermal Stability
PET has relatively poor thermal stability compared to other plastics like PP, PE, PS, and ABS. During pyrolysis, PET tends to degrade and undergo thermal cracking at relatively low temperatures, causing instability and uncontrollability in the pyrolysis process. Resulting in the production of undesirable by-products and significantly affecting the yield and quality of the end products.
2. Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Emissions
The pyrolysis of PET at higher temperatures leads to the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as benzene, toluene, and xylene. These VOCs are harmful to both human health and the environment, contributing to air pollution and potential health risks when released into the atmosphere. For example, it will pollute air and water sources, and may also cause health problems such as respiratory and skin diseases.
3. Causticity
PET decomposes and produces substances, such as phenol and acetic acid, which are corrosive to refining equipment and will shorten the life of the equipment and increase the cost of maintenance and replacement of the equipment.
Environmental Considerations:
1. Emissions of Hazardous Substances:
As mentioned earlier, PET pyrolysis releases VOCs and other hazardous substances, contributing to air pollution and posing a risk to human and environmental health. These emissions must be properly managed and treated to ensure compliance with air quality standards and mitigate potential negative impacts.
2. Waste Management Hierarchy:
In terms of sustainable waste management, pyrolysis is generally considered a last resort, preferable to landfilling but less desirable than recycling. Given its limitations in the pyrolysis process, PET should be prioritized for mechanical recycling or other suitable waste management strategies that allow for the retention and reuse of its valuable properties.
3. Focus on Sustainable Alternatives:
Rather than pyrolysis, emphasis should be placed on reducing PET consumption, promoting recycling initiatives, exploring alternative bio-based or biodegradable polymers, and investing in circular economy approaches. These efforts can help reduce the overall demand for virgin PET production and minimize the environmental impact associated with PET waste.
Although PET waste plastic is not suitable for pyrolysis, there are still many types of waste plastics that are suitable for pyrolysis, such as PE/PP/PS/ABS, etc. DOING's mature and advanced waste plastic pyrolysis machine can ensure that the oil yield rate of these waste plastics is as high as over 90%. If you are interested in our waste plastic pyrolysis machine, you can consult us at any time.

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