PYH2 – Catalysts for hydrogen rich syngas production from pyrolysis of non-recyclable plastic waste materials

The project focuses on developing a nano-structured, environmentally friendly catalyst for producing hydrogen-rich syngas from the pyrolysis of non-recyclable plastic waste. The catalyst is integrated into a lab-scale prototype designed to analyze the pyrolysis process, as outlined in D5.2.13 of W2, SPOKE 5, of the ECOSISTER PNRR Project.

The pyrolyzer is modified to test the catalyst, aiming to identify the optimal catalyst for the input material. The lab-scale pyrolyzer is enhanced with sensors to control and monitor the process, linking them to an industrial-level data acquisition system. The experimental campaign, using the modified prototype, will establish the best operating conditions to maximize hydrogen yield.

The results will inform the design of an industrial-scale system for H2-rich syngas production. The syngas will be tested in off-road internal combustion engines, with a simulation model used to estimate syngas consumption and pollutant emissions. A well-to-wheel analysis will assess the environmental sustainability by examining energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

The research will also guide the standardization of key components for off-road syngas engines.