Pyrolysis 101: Technologies, Feedstocks, and Products in Thailand
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
Pyrolysis is transforming waste management in Thailand and the ASEAN region, turning difficult waste streams into valuable materials. This advanced thermal decomposition technique works without oxygen, typically at temperatures ranging from 350°C to 700°C, effectively processing materials like end-of-life tires (ELT), plastics, and biomass. The outcome is a combination of biochar, tire pyrolysis oil (TPO), syngas, and recovered carbon black (rCB). This blog post will serve as a comprehensive guide for operators, estates, and investors, offering insights into technologies, feedstocks, and relevant case studies specifically in the context of Thailand.
What is Pyrolysis?
Pyrolysis is a method of thermal decomposition that occurs when organic materials are heated in an environment with little to no oxygen. This process leads to several products that are invaluable in today’s circular economy. The primary outputs from pyrolysis are:
Solid Fraction: This includes biochar and recovered carbon black (rCB).
Liquid Fraction: This is primarily in the form of condensable oil like tire pyrolysis oil (TPO).
Gaseous Fraction: Non-condensable gases are produced in the form of syngas, which can be reused for process energy.
Pyrolysis stands out from incineration and gasification, as it does not rely on full or partial oxidation processes. This uniqueness allows for the efficient conversion of waste into usable energy and materials.
Technologies Used in Pyrolysis
There are different technologies for executing pyrolysis, each with its advantages and disadvantages depending on the scale and input materials.
Batch/ Reactor Kilns
Batch or reactor kilns are simpler pyrolysis units that are characterized by lower capital expenditure (capex). These systems are suitable for small-scale biomass or biochar applications.
Pros:
Quick to deploy
Good for decentralized waste residues
Cons:
Variable quality of outputs
Limited monitoring unless equipped with advanced sensors and data logging tools
This technology is appropriate for localized waste management solutions.
Continuous Systems (Rotary Kiln, Auger, and Fluidized Bed)
Continuous systems are designed for higher throughput and consistent product quality. They are commonly employed for processing end-of-life tires and mixed plastic waste streams.
Pros:
Consistent residence time and temperature control
Enhanced quality assurance due to advanced monitoring
Cons:
Generally higher initial costs
An example of a successful continuous pyrolysis unit in Thailand is Marubeni’s investment in Green Rubber Energy (GRE), which is processing ELT to yield TPO and rCB.
Feedstocks: What Works in Thailand?
Selecting the right feedstock is critical for the successful operation of pyrolysis systems. Here’s what works well and what to keep in mind when sourcing materials.
End-of-Life Tires (ELT)
ELTs have emerged as an attractive feedstock for pyrolysis due to their predictable composition. They yield high-value products such as steel, rCB, and TPO:
Yield Profile (Thailand case study):
- Syngas: ~9%
- Oil: ~40%
- Carbon black: ~32%
- Steel: ~13%
- Sludge: ~6%
Efficient management of ELT requires quality assurance processes that focus on moisture control and contamination screening.
Plastics
Common plastic feedstocks include polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP). Regulatory challenges exist with PVC due to its potential for harmful emissions during pyrolysis. The sorting bottlenecks and composition of mixed municipal solid waste plastics are important factors to recognize in Thailand's waste management strategy.
Biomass
Residual materials like rice husks, bamboo offcuts, and wood waste can also be processed through pyrolysis to produce biochar. Biochar offers agronomic benefits and is increasingly recognized for its role in carbon sequestration.
Products and Specifications
Understanding the specific products that pyrolysis can generate helps in designing quality assurance (QA) measures and setting market expectations.
Tire Pyrolysis Oil (TPO)
TPO is used in industrial burners and as a blended fuel:
Specifications to Track:
- Density
- Kinematic viscosity
- Sulfur content
- Heating value
In Thailand, consistent quality and batch monitoring improve downstream commercial uptake.
Recovered Carbon Black (rCB)
rCB has applications in rubber manufacturing and as a filler in plastics. Quality specifications include:
Iodine adsorption number
Ash content
Particle size
GRE’s partnership with purification technologies ensures stable rCB quality tailored for tire applications.
Biochar
Biochar can be utilized as a soil amendment and in construction materials. Its specifications may include:
Fixed carbon content
pH
Bulk density
As Thailand pushes towards sustainable agriculture, biochar may further attract buyers looking for carbon credits.
Syngas
Syngas has uses in generating process heat and electricity. The gaseous outputs can be reused to fuel the pyrolysis reactor, reducing overall energy requirements.
Case Study: Building a Bankable ELT Pyrolysis Supply Chain
A notable example of successful project implementation is the partnership between Marubeni and Green Rubber Energy (GRE) in Thailand. This case highlights the creation of a robust supply chain designed to effectively process ELT.
Key components of the project:
Investment Scope: Development of an ELT pyrolysis business focused on extracting rCB and TPO.
Collection Strategy: Tyre collection through B-Quik, a leading provider in Thailand.
Sales Channels: Purified products sold through Marubeni's established rubber network, ensuring market access.
Why This Matters: This initiative directly addresses the escalating problem of waste tires while facilitating quality upgrades for rCB, essential for lender confidence and future investments.
The GRE and Marubeni project showcases how closed-loop systems can be created, benefiting all participants in the supply chain while aligning with circular economy goals.
Permitting and Financial Considerations in Thailand
To operate pyrolysis facilities, it is imperative to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.
Permits and Licensing
Obtaining environmental and operational permits is crucial for starting a pyrolysis business in Thailand. Facilities must manage factors such as odor, dust, and leachate to remain compliant.
Financial Framework and Green Taxonomy
Thailand has developed a green taxonomy that outlines technical screening criteria (TSC) for waste management projects. This framework supports financing models for pyrolysis technology, further facilitating investments in sustainable solutions.
Key Specifications and QA for Projects in Thailand
Before embarking on a pyrolysis project, operators should ensure that key performance specifications are documented and followed.
Quick Specs for ELT Feedstock
Moisture Content: ≤ 5%
Size Range: 20–50 mm
Contamination Levels: < 0.5% w/w
Reactor Controls
Temperature: 450–520°C (for ELT)
O2 Levels: < 1%
Residence Time: 45–90 minutes
Product Quality for TPO and rCB
Detailed specifications, such as sulfur levels for TPO and iodine numbers for rCB, are essential to meet buyer expectations and regulatory standards.
Checklist for Pre-Feasibility in Thailand
Before launching a pyrolysis project in Thailand, consider the following:
Define feedstock contracts covering quality and pricing.
Select the right reactor technology based on anticipated volumes.
Evaluate energy efficiency options, including syngas recycling.
Plan product pathways and eventual sales deals.
Conduct environmental and social impact assessments as required.
By following this checklist, investors and operators can secure a strong foundation for their pyrolysis projects, ensuring sustainability and profitability.
Contact Us for Customized Support
The path to effective waste management through pyrolysis is evolving rapidly. If you are interested in assessing the feasibility of your pyrolysis project, contact AD ASIA Consulting. We offer tailored pre-feasibility studies targeting Thailand’s market and EEC requirements, ensuring your project aligns with industry standards and sustainability goals.
In conclusion, pyrolysis represents a groundbreaking shift in how we handle complex waste streams in Thailand. With the right technology, feedstock management, and regulatory understanding, we can harness the power of pyrolysis to promote a sustainable and circular economy for the future.