Synergistic Interaction of Coal and Oil-based Wastes During their Co-Pyrolysis

Yelaman Aibuldinov1,2

Nurken Nurgaliyev1,2, Email

Eldar Kopishev3

Zhanar Iskakova1

Аinagul Kolpek3

Ayat Sabitov3, Email

Ruslan Muratov4

Galiya Alzhanova1

Gaziz Abdiyussupov1

Madi Omirzak1 

1Research Institute of New Chemical Technologies, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, 010008, Republic of Kazakhstan
2Department of Chemistry, Chemical Technology and Ecology, Kazakh University of Technology and Business, Astana, 010000, Republic of Kazakhstan
3Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, 010008, Republic of Kazakhstan
4Department of Environmental Management and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Sciences, L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, Astana, 010008, Republic of Kazakhstan

 

Abstract

The co-pyrolysis of low-rank coal (LRC) and oil sludge (OS) was investigated at 500 °C under nitrogen with varying mass ratios. The addition of OS (20–80%) enhanced tar and gas yields while reducing char formation, with the most pronounced synergistic effect observed at the 20/80 LRC/OS ratio. Thermogravimetric analysis confirmed improved degradation behavior, showing higher mass loss and lower peak decomposition temperatures compared to theoretical values. At the optimal ratio, the tar composition exhibited increased aromatic hydrocarbons with reduced alkanes and phenols, while gas analysis revealed higher yields of H2, CH4, and CnHm and lower contents of CO and CO2. These results demonstrate that co-pyrolysis of LRC and OS is an effective route to valorize hydrocarbon wastes and produce cleaner, energy-rich products.