Suitable Plastics for Pyrolysis Recycling

As plastic waste accumulates, pyrolysis recycling is becoming an increasingly popular disposal method. It converts waste plastic into fuel oil, combustible gas, and carbon residue, offering a way to both reduce pollution and generate profit.

However, not all plastics are suitable for pyrolysis. So, which types of plastic can be processed in pyrolysis equipment?

PE Plastic

PE (polyethylene) is one of the plastics best suited for pyrolysis and is commonly found in:

• Plastic films
• Shopping bags
• Agricultural mulch films
• Milk bottles
• Detergent bottles

PE plastic has a high carbon content and yields a large amount of oil upon pyrolysis; furthermore, the processing involved is straightforward, making it a preferred feedstock for many pyrolysis plants.

PP Plastic

PP (polypropylene) is also a preferred feedstock for pyrolysis equipment; examples include:

• Woven bags
• Courier packaging
• Plastic buckets
• Food containers
• Automotive plastic parts

Pyrolysis of PP yields a significant amount of fuel oil, making it one of the primary targets for recycling in the current market.

PS Plastic

PS (polystyrene) includes:

• Disposable food containers
• Foam packaging
• Insulated coolers
• Packaging materials for home appliances

This type of plastic breaks down easily when heated and yields high-quality oil, making it highly valuable for recycling.

Which Plastics Are Not Suitable for Pyrolysis?

Not all plastics are suitable for direct processing in pyrolysis equipment.

PVC plastic

Commonly found in:

• Water pipes
• Wire insulation/sheathing
• Window and door profiles

PVC contains a high level of chlorine, which can generate corrosive gases during pyrolysis; it requires specialized dechlorination treatment and is therefore typically sorted out beforehand.

PET plastic

Examples include:

• Mineral water bottles
• Beverage bottles
• Food packaging containers

PET is better suited for physical recycling into new plastic products; the economic return from direct pyrolysis is generally lower than that of PE and PP.

Can Mixed Waste Plastics Be Pyrolyzed?

The answer is yes, but sorting is required.

If the waste plastic consists primarily of PE, PP, and PS, it can be fed into the pyrolysis system after simple sorting. However, if the PVC content is too high, it not only compromises product quality but also increases equipment maintenance costs.