NITI Aayog Proposes Standards for Tyre Pyrolysis Oil

NITI Aayog has proposed new standards for tyre pyrolysis oil and recovered carbon black, two products obtained from the thermal decomposition of waste tyres in the absence of oxygen. Tyre pyrolysis is an industrial process used to convert end-of-life tyres into oil, gas, char, and steel, and recovered carbon black is a solid carbon-rich material obtained from the process.

Tyre Pyrolysis Process

Pyrolysis is a thermochemical conversion method that breaks down organic material at high temperatures without combustion. In the case of waste tyres, the process generally produces tyre pyrolysis oil, recovered carbon black, steel wire, and pyro-gas. The process is used in waste management and material recovery for used tyres.

Tyre Pyrolysis Oil

Tyre pyrolysis oil is a liquid hydrocarbon product derived from waste tyres. It can be used as an industrial fuel after suitable processing and quality control. Its composition varies with feedstock, reactor design, and operating conditions, which makes product standardisation relevant for industrial use.

Recovered Carbon Black

Recovered carbon black is a carbonaceous solid obtained from tyre pyrolysis residue. It is used in rubber, plastics, inks, coatings, and other industrial applications after further treatment. Its properties depend on the tyre type, pyrolysis temperature, and post-processing methods.

Important Facts for Exams

• Pyrolysis is a process of thermal decomposition carried out in the absence of oxygen.
• End-of-life tyres are classified as waste tyres and are used as feedstock in tyre pyrolysis plants.
• Recovered carbon black is different from virgin carbon black, which is produced from fossil fuel feedstocks.
• Tyre pyrolysis products include oil, gas, char, and steel wire.

Industrial and Regulatory Context

Standards for industrial by-products are used to define quality parameters, testing methods, and permissible uses. Such standards are relevant for waste-to-resource technologies, material recovery, and industrial safety. Tyre pyrolysis oil and recovered carbon black are linked to tyre recycling and circular economy practices.