Microwave Catalytic Pyrolysis of Nonmetallic Automotive Shredder Residue

ABSTRACT This study investigates the microwave‐catalyzed pyrolysis of automotive shredder residue (ASR) nonmetallic components using FeO, zeolite, and HZSM‐5 catalysts through TG/DTG analysis combined with KAS and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO) kinetic methods. The products are characterized by gas chromatography. The average activation energy for the main decomposition stage was 200.45 kJ/mol. Catalyst performance was temperature‐dependent: FeO showed better comprehensive performance at 540°C; at 620°C, the HZSM‐5 catalyst yielded 47.81% high‐quality combustible gases; and at 780°C, HZSM‐5 further enhanced selectivity toward H 2 and aromatic hydrocarbons. Optimal conditions were identified as HZSM‐5 catalyst, pyrolysis temperature of 780°C, and heating rate of 15°C/min, under which the highest yield of high‐quality gases and aromatics was achieved, demonstrating the best overall performance.