Chapter 2: The "Dirty" Oil
The liquid product harvested from simple pyrolysis is often visually deceptive. It may appear as a golden or amber liquid, mimicking diesel, but chemically, it is a hazardous waste cocktail.
2.1 The Chlorine Problem & De Novo Dioxins
Chlorine enters the stream primarily through PVC (Code #3) and salt contamination. Upon heating, PVC strips HCl molecules from its backbone.
- Acid Generation: Forms Hydrochloric Acid upon contact with moisture. Eats through stainless steel and destroys aluminum/brass fittings instantly.
- Organic Chlorides: Chlorine reacts with hydrocarbon radicals. These are soluble in the oil and cannot be removed by washing.
- Dioxin Synthesis: The cooling zone (200°C–400°C) is the perfect window for chlorine + carbon + oxygen to recombine into Dioxins and Furans—some of the most potent carcinogens known.
2.2 Benzene & Aromatics
Home pyrolysis of mixed plastics often yields oil with dangerously high benzene content. In industrial fuels, benzene is strictly limited to <1%.< /p>
Benzene content can exceed 10-20% if Polystyrene (Styrofoam) is present. Pouring this fuel releases benzene vapors directly into the operator's breathing zone.
Chapter 7: Why "Distilling" Is Not Enough
A common myth is that "dirty" oil can be cleaned by a secondary distillation (like moonshine). This is chemically incorrect due to the Azeotrope Barrier.
The Olefin Hazard: Without hydrogen saturation (industrial hydrotreating), olefins react with oxygen to form "gums". This sticky resin destroys high-pressure fuel injectors in modern engines.