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Plastic waste is a growing environmental challenge, but recent research suggests it can be transformed into a valuable resource—hydrogen. The study examined the potential of converting plastic waste from Southeast Asian nations such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam into hydrogen, highlighting a promising approach to tackling plastic pollution while contributing to clean energy production.
The scope of plastic waste
Annually, 189,953 tonnes of plastic waste are collected from these regions, predominantly composed of five types: Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and Polystyrene (PS). This significant quantity of waste offers a substantial feedstock for hydrogen production through advanced chemical processes.
The conversion process
The conversion of plastic waste into hydrogen involves three main phases: pyrolysis, water gas shift and steam reforming reaction, and pressure swing adsorption. Each stage has been meticulously studied to evaluate energy consumption and efficiency.
1. Pyrolysis: This initial phase involves breaking down the plastic waste into smaller hydrocarbons. Fast pyrolysis is conducted at 500 °C, which yields various hydrocarbons. A neutralization process with sodium hydroxide is necessary to manage hydrochloric acid produced during pyrolysis, preventing reactor damage.
2. Water gas shift and steam reforming: Following pyrolysis, the hydrocarbons undergo a water gas shift reaction, producing steam and carbon monoxide. These intermediates are then processed through steam reforming to generate carbon dioxide and hydrogen.
3. Pressure swing adsorption: The final stage involves purifying the hydrogen by removing hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and carbon dioxide (CO2) using pressure swing adsorption, resulting in high-purity hydrogen.
Economic and environmental impact
The simulation study indicated that processing 20,000 kg of plastic waste per hour from these regions could produce approximately 340,000 tonnes of hydrogen annually. The economic analysis estimates the annual profit from hydrogen production to be between $271,158,100 and $358,480,200, suggesting a lucrative opportunity for establishing hydrogen production plants in Southeast Asia.
Aligning with UN global goals
This innovative approach to managing plastic waste aligns with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- SDG 7: Affordable and clean energy: By converting plastic waste into hydrogen, this method provides a sustainable and clean energy source, contributing to the global shift towards renewable energy.
- SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production: This initiative promotes responsible waste management and the recycling of plastic waste, reducing environmental pollution and fostering sustainable production practices.
- SDG 13: Climate action: By mitigating plastic pollution and producing clean hydrogen, this process addresses climate change and supports efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Transforming plastic waste into hydrogen presents a dual benefit of addressing environmental pollution and contributing to the global clean energy transition. The promising economic and environmental outcomes underscore the potential for this technology to play a crucial role in Southeast Asia's sustainable development. Establishing hydrogen production plants in these regions could not only provide a profitable venture but also significantly advance efforts towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Sources and more information: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/378555143_Production_of_hydrogen_using_plastic_waste_via_Aspen_Hysys_simulation