Characterization of physicochemical properties of Diesel B5 S-50 blends with pyrolytic liquid fuel obtained from disposable face masks

Resumen

The accumulation of disposable face mask waste due to the COVID-19 pandemic has created the need to develop sustainable solutions for its management and valorization. This study analyzed the characterization of Diesel B5 S-50 blends with a pyrolytic liquid fuel obtained from the catalytic pyrolysis of disposable face masks, with the aim of assessing its feasibility as an alternative fuel. To achieve this, blends containing 5%, 10%, and 15% pyrolytic liquid by volume were formulated and characterized using ASTM standard methods to determine their physicochemical properties. The results show that the incorporation of pyrolytic liquid does not significantly affect fuel quality, as all formulations comply with the requirements established in Supreme Decree No. 092-2009-EM and its errata. An increase in the cetane index was observed, indicating improved combustion efficiency, along with a reduction in sulfur content and carbon residue, suggesting a lower environmental impact in terms of emissions. However, the calorific value slightly decreased in blends with a higher proportion of pyrolytic liquid. The volatility, fluidity, and chemical stability analysis demonstrated that the addition of pyrolytic liquid does not generate significant changes in the distillation profile, viscosity, or pour point of Diesel B5 S-50, indicating that these blends could be used in diesel engines without compromising performance