Chemical Recycling: Raw Materials for the Petrochemical Industry

This chapter gives an overview of thermochemical recycling technologies to obtain valuable raw materials from plastic containing waste. The necessity of thermochemical recycling to enable a circular economy for plastic containing waste streams that are currently nonrecyclable or hard to recycle is highlighted. The current legislation and market situation are presented regarding economic, ecologic, and social aspects. Pyrolysis and gasification technologies are classified and described in detail. Furthermore, conversion mechanisms, product yields, qualities, and corresponding applications of valuable products in the chemical industry are discussed for various polymer types. Additionally, process parameters and important influencing factors as contamination, intermixture, reactor types, etc. are discussed to reveal advantages and current challenges for thermochemical recycling technologies.