Pyrolysis of Polyethylene Terephthalate Granules in Presence of Lewis Brønsted Acid Sites Catalysts

Abstract

Among municipal polymer wastes, Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) is a unique agent because of its widespread usage and broad range of gaseous products in its catalytic cracking process. Pyrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in a semi-batch reactor was investigated using a Lewis Brønsted acid sites catalysts. Experiments were performed under isothermal condition to determine reaction kinetic parameters, product compositions, catalyst/PET mass ratio and temperature effect on the conversion. The products of reaction consist of gas, solid, and liquid phase with a maximum liquid product of 6% at 350 ºC. The optimal catalyst/PET mass ratio and temperature were determined. Additionally, the reaction order and activation energy for the reaction were detected.