Sustainable valorisation of tyre crumb via microwave-induced plasma gasification

This paper investigates the thermodynamics of tyre crumb gasification using microwave-induced plasmas. Previous studies at Lancaster University explored plasma torch systems for the gasification of wood chips; however, the broader adoption of microwave (MW) plasma torch technology has been constrained by challenges in scaling up reactor systems. To address this limitation, the current project at Lancaster University has developed a novel applicator design capable of generating relatively stable MW plasmas within larger-diameter steel chambers. This innovative approach removes the reliance on traditional ceramic components typically required in plasma torches, thereby improving robustness and scalability. Tyre crumb has been selected as one of the trial feedstocks for this novel applicator, providing a valuable case study for assessing both the thermodynamic performance and the potential of MW plasma technology in advancing sustainable waste-to-energy processes.