Pyrolysis of automotive shredder residue light fraction: maximization of the tar yield using design of experiment

The general aim of this study is the valorisation of Automotive Shredder Residue (ASR) via pyrolysis. Tar, the condensable gases obtained in the pyrolysis process, is an interesting alternative fuel. Thus, the pyrolysis process was investigated in order to maximize the tar yield. The design of experiment approach was used to plan a series of experiments and to identify which operating variables influence the yield of the process. Temperature and carrier gas flow proved to be significant factors affecting the yield, while the influence of ASR light fraction amount pyrolysed was negligible. In the experimental domain, the maximum response was obtained at 500 °C and 100 mL/min.