Synergistic Interactions between Scrap Tire and Plastics for the Production of High-Value Chemicals via Catalytic Pyrolysis

Plastic and tire waste pose serious environmental issues due to their persistence and landfill accumulation. This study explores co-pyrolysis of scrap tires with PS, PP, and LDPE plastics to produce sulfur-free, aromatic-rich oils. The process showed synergistic effects, improving yield and quality. Activated tire char, modified through acid and KOH treatments, served as an effective metal-free catalyst, promoting the formation of benzene, toluene, and ethylbenzene (BTEC) with high selectivity. DFT calculations revealed defect sites as key to catalytic activity. Techno-economic analysis confirmed the approach is cost-effective and reduces CO₂ emissions, supporting its industrial potential for sustainable waste upcycling