Pyrolysis

Pyrolysis, like gasification, turns waste into energy rich fuels by heating the waste under controlled conditions.  

While the processes are similar, there are some differences.

Pyrolysis involves heating waste to high temperatures (between 400C and 800C) in the absence of oxygen.  Synthesis gas, pyrolysis liquid and solid char are produced.  

The synthesis gas can be used to generate electricity.  Pyrolysis liquid can be used as a fuel or to make new products such as ethanol.  The char can be used as a solid fuel or as a nutrient additive to improve soils. 

• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and waste going to landfill
• Produces a marketable product (electricity)
• Low risk of water pollution
• Low risk of odours
• High recovery rate of resources
• Minimal risk of health consequences
• Commercially proven technology

• Technology is still evolving
• Markets are yet to be developed for  char product and pyrolysis liquids

Pilot, demonstration and commercial plants have been developed by the following companies:

• Best Energies, Gosford NSW
• Ethos Energy, Avonmouth, Bristol UK
• Graveson Energy Management (GEM), UK
• Takuma, Japan
• TechTrade, Germany
• Thide Environment, France and Japan
• Mitsui, Japan