Temperature-Dependent investigation of pyrolysis products from PP and LDPE for Gasoline-Like fuel applications

This study investigates the influence of pyrolysis temperature on the yield distribution, chemical composition, and fuel-relevant properties of polypropylene (PP) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) waste streams in a pilot-scale, gas-fired auger reactor. The experiments were carried out at different pyrolysis temperatures between 525 and 650 °C in 25 °C increments to evaluate the trade-offs between gas production and oil quality. Gas phase composition was analyzed and HHV was calculated, while the liquid fractions were characterized in terms of density, HHV, and hydrocarbon class distribution. Results demonstrate that higher temperatures increase gas yields and improve energy self-sufficiency, but may lead to diminished oil quality regarding fuel applications due to elevated aromatic and benzene contents, particularly beyond 575 °C. The gasoline fractions were assessed against the EN 228 standard, revealing optimal compliance at intermediate temperatures.