Question
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Pyrolysis-based technology can convert plastics-rich refuse-derived fuel into extractor-ready BTX product, but the substantial energy input and processing challenges compel the petrochemical industry to consider waste gasification alternatives. How do you see this evolving?
Dec-2022
Answers
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Ludo Boot, Albemarle Corporation, ludo.boot@albemarle.com
The answer to this question is very much dependent on the actual case at hand. The most applicable solution, whether pyrolysis or gasification, depends on many factors, one being capital investment. If a petrochemical company has certain assets in place, that may lead to using either pyrolysis or gasification technologies.
In terms of environmental impact analysis, LCA, GHG or GWP, there are studies showing a small advantage to one, some to another. Contaminants in waste-derived oils considered for a project can also differ, favouring either of the two technologies. These combined factors determine whether a pyrolysis or gasification technology application makes more sense for a certain case. Moreover, there may be enough space in the market for pyrolysis-based technologies and gasification to co-exist in the future.
Dec-2022
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