Direct Polypropylene and Polyethylene Liquefaction in CO and N Atmospheres Using MgO Light and CaO as Catalysts.

The polyolefin to lighter molecules reaction reduces the waste-plastic residues to produce fuels and valuable chemicals. Commercial MgO light and CaO were used as catalysts for the direct polyethylene and polypropylene liquefaction in N or CO atmospheres. The products were analyzed (ATR-FTIR, GC-FID/TCD, GC-FID, density, refractive index). The use of MgO light and CaO improved the conversion of propylene and ethylene to liquid products. In addition, low gaseous and solid products yields were obtained. A good production of organic liquids in the gasoline, diesel and kerosene boiling range was obtained. The use of CO, in some cases, led to a higher conversion into liquids compared with the reactions performed in the N atmosphere. In addition, the use of the CO atmosphere led to a higher content of products with a boiling range in the diesel and kerosene ranges.