Thermokinetic analysis and product characterization of waste tire-hazelnut shell co-pyrolysis: TG-FTIR and fixed bed reactor study

The synergetic effects during co-pyrolysis of waste tires and hazelnut shell biomass were investigated concerning the product distribution and reaction kinetics. The components were blended at different ratios and investigated using a thermogravimetric analyzer coupled with a Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer. Kinetic parameters were calculated for the blends by Distributed Activation Energy Model, Straink, and Ozawa-Flynn-Wall; activation energies varied between 100 and 300 kJ mol(-1). Theoretical mass loss and activation energy results showed a synergetic interaction between components, especially for the 80% waste tire and 20% hazelnut shell biomass blends. Pyrolytic oil obtained from fixed bed experiments was analyzed by GC/MS, H-1 NMR, and FTIR. Although the contents were similar, significant variations in intensities were observed. Elemental analysis showed the deoxygenation effect of co-pyrolysis with lower oxygen content and higher heating value for pyrolytic oil. The results showed that co-pyrolysis of these types of waste has the potential to be co-processed for liquid fuel production with improved properties.