Diseño de una planta pirolítica para el reciclaje energético del polipropileno desechado en la ciudad de Cartagena

Abstract

Polypropylene is a material widely used in the manufacture of products such as those presented in the food packaging industry, textile sector, toy store and containers, leading to mass production of waste from this in Cartagena, producing approximately 480 thousand tons annually. Although mechanical recycling of polypropylene is a popular option, many polypropylene wastes is not viable for mechanical recycling due to contamination or material degradation. As a result, this polypropylene waste often ends up in landfills, which generates greenhouse gas emissions and other negative environmental impacts. The energy recycling of polypropylene is a base solution for this waste, since it allows to recover the energy contained in the material. However, the energy recycling of this also presents challenges, such as the need for specialized facilities and the possibility of emissions of polluting gases during the incineration process. It is therefore important to explore energy recycling of polypropylene as a solution, considering both the benefits and the possible negative impacts on the environment and human health. On the other hand, it is necessary to establish conditions for recycling to be implemented and give an assertive comparison with respect to the product to be obtained.