THERMOCHEMICAL CONVERSION OF PLASTIC WASTE INTO LIQUID FUELS: ADVANCES, CATALYSTS AND SUSTAINABILITY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/revgeov16n5-312Keywords:
Pyrolysis, Plastic Waste, Liquid Fuels, Catalysts, Circular EconomyAbstract
The increasing generation of plastic waste in Brazil and worldwide highlights the limitations of traditional recycling systems and reinforces the need for technological routes capable of promoting the valorization of these materials. In this context, pyrolysis emerges as a promising thermochemical alternative, particularly in light of sustainability demands, emission reduction goals, and the development of synthetic fuels compatible with high-energy-demand sectors such as aviation. This study aims to analyze the conversion of plastic waste into liquid fuels through thermal decomposition processes, emphasizing the role of catalysts and the potential integration of this route with the production of sustainable aviation fuels. A comprehensive bibliographic review was conducted, encompassing studies published between 2019 and 2025, as well as institutional reports related to solid waste management in Brazil. The findings indicate that catalytic pyrolysis exhibits higher efficiency in breaking polymer chains, greater selectivity, and improved physicochemical characteristics of the resulting fuels when compared to conventional thermal pyrolysis. Results also highlight the strategic relevance of this technology in the Brazilian context, considering the country’s low plastic recycling rates and the need for innovative circular economy solutions. It is concluded that pyrolysis presents high technical feasibility and environmental relevance, positioning itself as a promising alternative for the energetic valorization of plastic waste and for advancements in sustainable fuel production.
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