Upgrading waste plastic‐derived pyrolytic oils via fractional distillation: A comparative evaluation of fuel properties

Abstract

Liquid pyrolysis oils possess high energy content due to their complex hydrocarbon composition and thus exhibit significant potential as alternative fuels. However, further improvement in the quality of these liquid products is required for their effective utilization as fuels. In this context, the present study investigates the fractionation of pyrolysis oils derived from polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS) wastes produced at 300, 400, 500, 600, and 700°C via fractional distillation into two distinct fractions. These fractions were subsequently characterized in accordance with relevant fuel quality parameters specified in Turkish and European standards to assess their suitability as gasoline and diesel fuels. The PP400 fraction was identified as the most suitable distilled fraction in terms of diesel fuel properties, meeting the requirements outlined in TS 3082 (Turkish Automotive Fuels—Diesel Fuel—Requirements and Test Methods). In contrast, the PS500 bottom fraction was determined to be the most appropriate candidate for fuel oil applications according to TS EN 2177 (Turkish Fuel Oil Standard). Furthermore, a diesel blend containing 40% PP400 exhibited performance characteristics most comparable to conventional diesel fuel in terms of brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC) and brake thermal efficiency (BTE) when tested in a diesel engine. The study demonstrates that sulfur and other impurity‐containing compounds are preferentially concentrated in the heavy fraction, thereby facilitating selective upgrading strategies for the distilled fractions. This selective distillation approach enhances the fuel applicability of the lighter fraction while providing a pathway for efficient treatment of the heavier fraction.