autoevolution
 

Jet Fuel Made Of Plastic Could Be the Next Thing, Is Cheaper and More Effective

Plastic waste has been a global issue for decades now and it affects the environment in so many ways. But this new technology could put plastic to good use, turning it into jet fuel. The process looks more effective than conventional methods, both in terms of costs and production time.
Jet engines 1 photo
A team of researchers from the Washington State University figured out a way to convert polyethylene into jet fuel, using a process that takes only an hour and costs less money than conventional solutions.

Polyethylene is the most widely used type of plastic and you can see it in various products from plastic bags to shampoo bottles and more. Recycling plastic has always been a problem up until now because the methods used were either too expensive or ineffective in terms of the quality of the end product. According to the article published by the Washington State University, the United States recycles only 9 percent of its plastic every year.

In their experiment, the researchers used a ruthenium on carbon catalyst and a commonly used solvent. They managed to convert approximately 90 percent of the plastic they used to jet fuel components and it took them only an hour to do so. The temperature required was 428 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius), which according to them is moderate and lower than the one needed with typical methods such as chemical recycling for instance.

The process can be fine-tuned to create various types of high-quality polyethylene products and lubricants. Researchers also think they can apply the same principles to other types of plastic as well.

In addition to bringing lower costs and higher efficiency, this recycling technology can also reduce plastic waste that’s responsible for ocean pollution and degrading pristine environments.

Researchers are hoping they can soon scale up this process for commercialization.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Cristina Mircea
Cristina Mircea profile photo

Cristina’s always found writing more comfortable to do than speaking, which is why she chose print over broadcast media in college. When she’s not typing, she also loves riding non-motorized two-wheelers, going on hikes with her dog, and rocking her electric guitars.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories