Co-pyrolysis of plastic waste and macroalgae Ulva lactuca, a sustainable valorization approach towards the production of bio-oil and biochar
Obie Farobie, Apip Amrullah, Widya Fatrıasarı, Asep Bayu Dani Nandiyanto, Lusi Ernawati, Surachai Karnjanakom, Seng Hua Lee, Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian, Nur Izyan Wan Azelee, Muhammad Aziz
Abstract
To address the pressing demand for sustainable energy in light of environmental challenges, this study explored the synergetic effects of the co-pyrolysis of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and Ulva lactuca macroalgae to yield bio-oil and biochar. The objective is to enhance the bio-oil quality for wider usability and to combat marine pollution. By employing co-pyrolysis, notable progress has been achieved in bio-oil yield and quality, particularly in hydrocarbon content, through the integration of PET. The highest bio-oil yield of 37.91% was achieved under optimal conditions at 500 °C with a feedstock mixture consisting of 40% U. lactuca and 60% PET. Under these conditions, the bio-oil exhibited a significant increase in hydrocarbon content, reaching 57.16%, which is essential for improving its energy potential. Biochar quality was also enhanced, with the biochar from a 70% U. lactuca and 30% PET blend showing a BET surface area of 20.18 m 2 /g, compared to the initial 1.38 m 2 /g of raw U. lactuca , indicating improved surface properties. This study presents a sustainable energy generation and environmental preservation approach, underscoring the potential of synergistically utilizing marine resources and plastic waste. • Co-pyrolysis of Ulva lactuca and PET enhances bio-oil yield and quality. • Optimal bio-oil yield of 37.91% at 500°C with 40% U. lactuca and 60% PET. • Synergetic effects of PET integration improve hydrocarbon content in bio-oil. • Reduced biochar formation improves BET surface area and mean pore diameter. • Sustainable valorization approach addresses both energy needs and marine pollution.