Kerogen-driven synergistic interactions in oil shale and microplastics co-pyrolysis: mechanistic insights into product distribution and oil upgrading

Unraveling Co-Pyrolysis Mechanisms for Municipal Sludge and Microplastics: Thermodynamic, Kinetic, and Product Insights

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Wastewater treatment plants produce large quantities of sewage sludge, which is often contaminated with microplastics from household and industrial sources. This study tested whether co-pyrolyzing sludge with polyethylene (HDPE) or PET plastic waste at high temperatures could improve energy recovery while processing microplastics. Adding 30% HDPE maximized the overall pyrolysis efficiency and changed the chemical reaction pathways, while PET had stronger facilitating effects at mid-range temperatures. The research suggests that co-pyrolysis could serve the dual purpose of sludge disposal and microplastic destruction, though the altered reaction kinetics and product mixtures require careful management.

Plastic regulates its co-pyrolysis process with biomass: Influencing factors, model calculations, and mechanisms

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Researchers investigated co-pyrolysis of plastics and biomass, finding that varying the hydrogen-to-carbon ratio of biomass feedstocks influences synergistic effects on bio-oil quality, offering a strategy to improve plastic waste valorization.

Maximizing light olefins and aromatics as high value base chemicals via single step catalytic conversion of plastic waste

Pyrolysis of Mixed Plastic Waste

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Researchers systematically characterized challenges in pyrolyzing mixed plastic waste — including oil contamination and incomplete conversion — and presented processing improvements that enhance oil yield and quality, positioning pyrolysis as a viable advanced recycling route for plastic streams that mechanical recycling cannot handle.

Case Studies on the Polymer-Water Nexus: Microplastic Degradation Using Catalyzed Wet Oxidation

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Case studies of catalyzed wet oxidation — a process using high temperature, pressure, and chemical catalysts — demonstrated effective degradation of microplastic polymers in water, converting them to smaller organic molecules or CO2. This technology offers a route to complete microplastic elimination from wastewater streams rather than filtration and disposal, which is critical as conventional treatment plants fail to remove a significant fraction of plastic particles.