THERMAL CONVERSION OF SCRAP TYRES

Slow pyrolysis of scrap tyres has been carried out in a batch reactor and the results yields, composition of gas and liquid fraction and solid residue have been discussed. Batch operation in the 400-570oC range gives way to a yield 1.4 - 11.1 wt. % of gases, 6.4-50.0 wt.% liquid fraction, with a maximum yield of limonene of 9.0 wt% at 450oC and 6.1 – 46.3 wt.% of solid residue (char). The volatile fraction is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, from methane to compounds of high molecular weight. From non-hydrogen component there are present carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Isoprene and benzene with temperature and yield of aromatic C7-C10 fraction decreases. The high yield of limonene are the advantages of batch technology.