Synthesizing Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate From Plastic Waste

ABSTRACT This study explores the synthesis of linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS), a widely used surfactant, from pyrolysis oil derived from plastic waste, presenting an innovative approach to address sustainability challenges in surfactant production. Traditionally, LAS is synthesized from petrochemical feedstocks such as kerosene and benzene, but concerns over nonrenewable fossil resources and environmental impact have driven research toward alternative sources. The paper highlights pyrolysis, a thermochemical recycling method, to upcycle plastic waste into pyrolysis oil akin to synthetic crude oil. This pyrolysis oil serves as a feedstock for producing LAS, offering a pathway to reduce reliance on virgin fossil resources. The synthesis involved separating fractions via distillation, followed by alkylation and sulfonation reactions, to obtain LAS. Comparative analysis was conducted between the synthesized LAS and commercial LAS, focusing on surface activity, revealing similarity as well as some differences, likely due to impurities from pyrolysis and synthesis reactions. By showcasing the transformation of plastic waste into pyrolysis oil and subsequently into linear alkylbenzene sulfonate, this research exemplifies a practical application that could address the challenge of plastic waste management and demonstrates a sustainable pathway for producing a widely used surfactant, reducing dependence on virgin fossil resources.