Co-Pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse and polyethylene terephthalate waste: Influence of reaction temperature on product distribution and synergistic effect

Co-pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse (SCB) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was conducted in a fixed-bed reactor. The effect of reaction temperatures (400â 700°C) on the product quantity (yield) and quality (chemical composition) as well as synergistic effect during co-pyrolysis were investigated. The results showed that high reaction temperature promoted the interaction between SCB and PET volatiles resulted in a higher liquid yield than theoretical value. The synergistic effect is most significant at 600°C. The co-pyrolysis of SCB and PET could promote the production of ester but inhibit the generation of sugar, carbonyl, and alcohol compounds. The effects were most prevalent at 500°C. The SCB-derived oxygen containing radicals facilitated the decomposition of PET via chain scission of the cyclic ester-linkage, thereby promoting the formation of methyl ester. The optimum reaction temperature for the co-pyrolysis of SCB and PET was selected at 500°C due to the attainment of a substantial quantity of bio-oil and the generation of valuable organic chemicals. This study provides an effective utilization of agricultural byproducts and plastic waste for enhanced product distribution and content.