Technology
Aeronautics /
USA
Sustainable Aircraft Fuel
Innovative technology allows to convert plastics into fuels and other important products
Abastecimento de avião
Por David Monniaux - Copyright © 2005 David Monniaux, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Rafael Ramos
5/22/2021
Researchers at Washington State University (USA) have developed an innovative technology that allows converting plastics into components of aviation fuel and other important hydrocarbons through chemical reactions.
Organic reactions are usually time-consuming and yield around 60-80%. However, by adjusting the temperature and pressure, the reaction yield is high in a short time. Thus, recycling plastics becomes easier, faster and more economical. In addition, the product obtained can be modified according to the conditions of the reactions.
The work, led by graduate student Chuhua Jia and associate professor at the School of Chemical Engineering and Bioengineering at Washington State University, Hongfei Lin, was published in the journal Chem Catalysis.
Image: Unsplash
The work can be read in full on the external link below.
According to Lin: “In the recycling industry, cost is fundamental. This work is a milestone for us to move forward with this new technology for commercialization. ”
The most common mechanical recycling methods just melt the plastic and reshape it, making the plastic less economical and quality for use in other products. Chemical recycling can make the products have a higher quality, but it requires more reaction time and higher temperatures, which directly implies the cost.
Mecanismo de catálise proposto
Divulgação/Chem Catalysis
The catalytic process proposed in the work could help in this regard, contributing to a greater recycling of plastics and reducing the environmental problem that humanity experiences due to plastic waste.
For aviation, in turn, it would be very advantageous, since it can produce combustible components and lubricating oils of high added value.
The catalyst used in the reaction is ruthenium on carbon. In the reaction, a commonly used solvent is used. This combination showed 90% yield at temperatures of 220 ° C in one hour, which implies less energy expenditure and greater efficiency than the common ones.
With support from the Washington Research Foundation, researchers are working to expand the process for future commercialization. They believe that their process can work effectively with other types of plastics.
Hyperlinks:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
Rafael Ramos
Aviation enthusiast from an early age, he had his first contacts with the area developing that good old habit of spending dozens of hours in front of the screens of Micrsoft Flight Simulator and other simulators. With a solid background in various technological areas, including engineering and chemistry, Rafael has rejoined aviation as editor and author of articles and materials on our portal, providing invaluable help to the dynamics and expansion of the website and the aeronautical community, bringing us the news and updates so indispensable for us to remain current in our area of operation.
   
|