Catalytic Pyrolysis of Waste Tyre Rubber into Hydrocarbons Via Base Catalysts

The waste tyres represent a source of energy and valuable hydrocarbon products. Waste tyres were pyrolysed catalytically in a batch reactor under atmospheric pressure. The effects of basic catalysts (MgO and CaCO3) were studied on the pyrolysis products. The distribution ratio of gas, liquid and char with MgO and CaCO3 were 24.4:39.8:35.8 wt % and 32.5:32.2:35.2 wt % respectively at 350°C for 2hr catalytic pyrolysis. The physical and chemical properties of the pyrolzed products obtained were characterized. Both catalysts produced 25 % wt of aliphatic hydrocarbons but with the use of magnesium oxide the aromatic hydrocarbons increased (55 %) and polar hydrocarbons decreased (20 %) as compared to calcium carbonate catalyst (50 % aromatic and 25 % polar hydrocarbons). As far as the distillation data and fuel tests are concerned, the oil fractions with both catalysts fulfill the present specifications of diesel fuel commercial products.