Systems and methods for polymer waste treatment

Abstract

According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system (1) comprising: a hollow chamber (2) comprising a first chamber (3) and a second chamber (4) wherein the second chamber (4) is rotatable, or the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) are rotatable; a heating system (19) configured to heat the second chamber (4), or respectively heat the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4); a spray gun (5) having at least one discharge opening (6), where the spray gun (5) extends within the hollow chamber (2) at least through the first chamber (3), and where the system (1) is configured to feed polymer waste (7) into the second chamber (4) via the at least one discharge opening (6); at least one injector (21) capable of injecting at least one sweeping fluid into the first chamber (3), or into the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4), to form a fluid flow towards at least one gas outlet (20) for collecting products (13) comprising the at least one sweeping fluid and gas (22) from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for treating polymer waste.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for treating polymer waste. Background Art

[0003] Polymers are used in a wide variety of products. Polymers are usually obtained from petroleum resources, which are considered non-renewable. In this relationship, the need for a sustainable raw material supply has arisen, as the accumulation of polymer waste has been considered an environmental problem. Therefore, polymer waste is usually collected and sorted for recycling or thermal decomposition purposes. Environmental problems can be reduced by subsequent treatment of polymer waste materials and reuse of at least part of the materials.

[0004] For example, polymer waste materials can be treated by pyrolysis, that is, thermally decomposing polymer waste materials at high temperatures in an inert atmosphere to obtain a product comprising gases from at least a portion of the pyrolyzed polymer waste. This treatment can be carried out, for example, in a reactor, such as a rotary kiln reactor, into which the polymer waste is fed. Typically, a carrier gas is also used to facilitate flow, increase flow rate, and flush the process flow of gases from at least a portion of the pyrolyzed polymer waste to another area for post-processing. For example, nitrogen is a commonly used carrier gas. Other examples of carrier gases are carbon dioxide or methane.

[0005] In view of the above, it would be beneficial to provide systems and methods for processing polymer waste. Summary of the invention

[0006] The invention is defined by the features of the independent claim. Some specific embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a system is provided, the system comprising: a hollow chamber, the hollow chamber comprising a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the second chamber is rotatable, or the first chamber and the second chamber are rotatable; a heating system, configured to heat the second chamber alone or the first chamber and the second chamber; a lance, having at least one feed outlet, wherein the lance extends within the hollow chamber at least through the first chamber, and wherein the system is configured to feed polymer waste into the second chamber via the at least one feed outlet; at least one injector, capable of injecting at least one sweep fluid into the first chamber, or into the first chamber and the second chamber, so as to form a fluid flow toward at least one gas outlet, the at least one gas outlet being used to collect a product comprising at least one sweep fluid and gas from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

[0008] Various implementations of the first aspect may include at least one feature from the following indicative list:

[0009] The first chamber and the second chamber are independently rotatable;

[0010] The hollow chamber comprises a barrier between the first chamber and the second chamber, wherein an opening is provided between the barrier and the spray gun;

[0011] ●The barrier is made of metal, metal alloy, high temperature resistant fabric or a combination thereof;

[0012] The system includes a compressor disposed downstream of the gas outlet;

[0013] The hollow chamber is at least partially arranged within a housing comprising a heating system, wherein the heating system comprises a first space configured to receive a first heated gas having a first temperature, and a second space configured to receive a second heated gas having a second temperature, wherein the first space is aligned with the first chamber and the second space is aligned with the second chamber;

[0014] The hollow chamber is at least partially arranged within a housing comprising a heating system, wherein the heating system comprises only a second space configured to receive a second heated gas having a second temperature, wherein the second space is aligned with the second chamber;

[0015] The second space includes a plurality of heating zones, wherein each heating zone is configured to receive a heated gas having a specific temperature;

[0016] •The system further includes at least one movable object disposed within the first chamber;

[0017] • The system further includes at least one structure in the first chamber protruding from an inner surface of the hollow chamber into the chamber;

[0018] • The system is configured to inject at least one of: a condensable gas, steam, water, a non-condensable gas, nitrogen, or a hydrocarbon such as pyrolysis oil or diesel via at least one injector;

[0019] ● the second chamber comprises at least one residue outlet;

[0020] • Each of the first chamber and the second chamber comprises at least one residue outlet;

[0021] • The gas outlet is comprised by the first chamber, or by the second chamber.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method is provided, comprising: providing a hollow chamber comprising a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the second chamber is rotated, or the first chamber and the second chamber are rotated; heating the second chamber, or heating the first chamber and the second chamber separately; providing a spray gun having at least one discharge port, wherein the spray gun extends at least through the first chamber in the hollow chamber, and polymer waste is fed into the second chamber via the at least one discharge port; injecting at least one purge fluid into the first chamber, or into the first chamber and the second chamber, so as to form a fluid flow toward at least one gas outlet, the at least one gas outlet being used to collect a product comprising at least one purge fluid and gas from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

[0023] Various implementations of the second aspect may include at least one feature from the following indicative list:

[0024] The method further comprises independently rotating the first chamber and the second chamber;

[0025] The wall temperature of the hollow chamber in the first chamber and the second chamber is in the range of 500-800°C;

[0026] The method further comprises disposing the hollow chamber at least partially within a housing having a first space and a second space, receiving a first heated gas having a first temperature in the first space, wherein the first space is aligned with the first chamber; and receiving a second heated gas having a second temperature in the second space, wherein the second space is aligned with the second chamber;

[0027] • the method further comprises disposing the hollow chamber at least partially within a housing comprising a heating system, wherein the heating system comprises only a second space configured to receive a second heated gas having a second temperature, wherein the second space is aligned with the second chamber;

[0028] The method further comprises individually heating a plurality of heating zones comprised by the second chamber, wherein each heating zone is configured to receive a heated gas having a specific temperature;

[0029] The purge fluid is at least one of: a condensable gas, steam, water, a non-condensable gas, nitrogen, or a hydrocarbon such as pyrolysis oil or diesel;

[0030] The pressure gradient between the hollow chamber and the at least one gas outlet is in the range of 0.1-5 kPa, for example 0.5-2 kPa;

[0031] The method further comprises pre-melting or extruding the polymer waste before feeding the polymer waste into the second chamber;

[0032] - The method further comprises liquefying the collected gas downstream of the gas outlet.

[0033] Certain embodiments of the present invention achieve considerable advantages. In particular, systems and methods for treating polymer waste are provided. The system includes a hollow chamber having a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the second chamber is rotatable, or the first chamber and the second chamber are rotatable. A sweep fluid can be injected into the first chamber, and polymer waste material can be fed into the second chamber. During operation of the reactor, a product comprising at least one sweep fluid and gas from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste is collected for subsequent processing. According to certain embodiments, due to the presence of a pressure gradient between the first chamber and the second chamber to form a fluid flow, gas backflow from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste can be avoided. The use of condensable gas, steam or water as a sweep fluid is beneficial for subsequent processing purposes because the sweep fluid can be easily separated or removed from the product by condensation during the subsequent processing. In the pyrolysis of polymer waste, removing the sweep fluid or carrier gas that does not contribute to the liquid product yield can improve the recovery rate of hydrocarbons. The use of hydrocarbons or hydrocarbons containing water as a purge fluid is advantageous in reducing the water content in the system, thereby reducing the need for water separation and wastewater management in subsequent stages. Maximization of the recovery of liquid products is extremely important for the technical and economic performance and sustainability of the polymer waste pyrolysis process. In addition, the condensation process of the polymer waste material pyrolysis system is usually designed to remove the pyrolysis water, so feeding water or steam into the first chamber of the reactor does not bring significant additional complexity to the process. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0035] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing a heating system of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown,

[0036] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of another heating system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown.

[0037] Figure 4 a schematic diagram showing details of a heating system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0038] Figure 5 a schematic diagram showing details of a hollow chamber of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0039] Figure 6 a schematic diagram showing further details of a hollow chamber of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0040] Figure 7 a schematic diagram showing further details of a hollow chamber of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0041] Figure 8 a schematic diagram showing still further details of a hollow chamber of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention,

[0042] Fig. 9 a schematic diagram showing details of a system according to at least some embodiments of the present invention, and

[0043] Fig.10 Schematic diagrams of systems in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present invention are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] exist Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIG. System 1 includes a so-called reactor or rotary kiln reactor, particularly for thermally decomposing materials at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen or at low oxygen levels to avoid combustion of hydrocarbons. This process is also known as pyrolysis.

[0045] Specifically, system 1 includes a hollow chamber 2, which includes a first chamber 3 and a second chamber 4. Both the first chamber and the second chamber are rotatable. System 1 is configured to process polymer waste 7. In this document, the term "polymer waste" refers to a material mainly comprising a polymer material. For example, impurities may be present in the polymer material. Typically, polymer waste 7 is a material collected for recycling or thermal decomposition purposes. Exemplary polymer waste raw materials used according to certain embodiments include polyethylene and at least one of the following in varying amounts: polypropylene, polystyrene and other components, such as polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride. The polymer waste raw materials may be contaminated by trace impurities, which are derived from, for example, biomass.

[0046] The hollow chamber 2 is typically in the form of an elongated hollow cylinder. The term "elongated" means that the length of the hollow cylinder is substantially greater than the diameter of the hollow cylinder. For example, the length of the hollow cylinder may be 18 m and the diameter of the hollow cylinder may be 2 m. The hollow chamber 2 is typically made of metal or a metal alloy. The entire hollow chamber 2 is configured to rotate around an axis of rotation A. The axis of rotation A is typically oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. The term "horizontally oriented axis" refers to an axis oriented perpendicular to the gravity vector or perpendicular to the normal to the earth's surface. Similarly, the term "substantially horizontally oriented axis" refers to an axis that is inclined a few degrees, for example less than 10 degrees, from an axis oriented perpendicular to the gravity vector or perpendicular to the normal to the earth's surface. The rotation speed of the entire hollow chamber 2 may be, for example, in the range of 0.1 to 5 revolutions per minute (rpm), for example, in the range of 1 to 2 rpm. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 rotate simultaneously. According to other embodiments, only the second chamber 4 is rotated, or as in combination with Figure 7 As described above, the first chamber 3 and the second chamber are rotated respectively.

[0047] The system further comprises a heating system 19 configured to heat the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4, respectively. As indicated by arrow 19, the heating system 19 is typically arranged outside the wall of the hollow chamber 2. The heating of the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 is achieved by increasing the wall temperature of the rotatable hollow chamber 2 from ambient temperature to a temperature in the range of 200°C to 800°C by bringing the wall into contact with a heated gas, in particular the side regions of the rotatable hollow chamber. Typically, the wall temperature of the side regions of the first chamber 3 is different from the wall temperature of the side regions of the second chamber 4. Thus, if desired, different temperatures can be provided in the first chamber 3 and in the second chamber 4. For example, the temperature in the first chamber 3 can be 550°C, and the temperature in the second chamber 4 can be 600°C, for example. Typically, the temperature in the second chamber 4 is higher than the temperature in the first chamber 3. In other words, the system 1 is configured to regulate the temperature in the first chamber 3 and the temperature in the second chamber 4 by means of the heating system 19. The temperature in the second chamber 4 is typically higher than the decomposition temperature of the polymer waste material. An example of the heating system 19 for the illustrated embodiment is Figure 2 According to another embodiment of the present invention, only the second chamber 4 is heated, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the wall of the second chamber 4 can be divided into sub-zones or heating zones, which can be heated separately, such as Figure 4 shown.

[0048] The system 1 further comprises a lance 5 having at least one discharge opening 6. The lance 5 is fixed, i.e., the lance 5 is not configured to rotate, while the rotatable hollow chamber 2 is configured to rotate around the lance 5. The lance 5 can be, for example, in the form of a hollow cylinder. The central axis of the lance 5 is usually arranged or oriented coaxially with the rotation axis A. The lance 5 is usually made of metal or a metal alloy. The lance 5 extends in the hollow chamber 2 at least through the first chamber 3. Figure 1 As shown, the spray gun 5 can also partially extend into the second chamber 4. The system 1 is configured to feed polymer waste 7 into the second chamber 4 via at least one discharge port 6. The spray gun 5 is included in or coupled to a feed system (not shown). The feed system is typically an extrusion type feed system. The polymer waste 7 is (mainly) pre-melted so that the feed is converted into a flowable form to allow passage through the spray gun 5.

[0049] The polymer waste 7 fed into the second chamber 4 via the at least one discharge port 6 of the lance 5 falls due to gravity onto the heated inner surface 12 of the rotatable hollow chamber 2. The rotation of the hollow chamber 2 causes the polymer waste material 7 to be distributed in the second chamber 4 over at least a portion of the inner surface 12 of the chamber 2. The distribution of the polymer waste 7 over at least a portion of the inner surface 12 of the chamber 2 in the second chamber 4 can be improved by tilting the rotatable hollow chamber 2 by a few degrees, for example 3 to 5 degrees, from a horizontal axis. In this configuration, the rotatable hollow chamber 2 is arranged substantially horizontally.

[0050] The high temperature wall of the hollow chamber 2 causes the polymer waste material 7 in the second chamber 4 to undergo thermal decomposition, thereby converting the polymer waste material 7 from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste and residue into gas 22. For example, the residue may contain inorganic matter or inorganic contaminants. The rotatable hollow chamber 2 typically includes a residue outlet 23 at the rear end 25 of the chamber 2.

[0051] The hollow chamber 2 also typically includes a barrier 14 or a seal between the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4. The barrier 14 or the seal is configured to allow a fluid flow, in particular an air flow, from the first chamber 3 to the second chamber 4. For example, an opening 15 is provided between the barrier 14 and the lance 5. The opening 15 may be permeable, allowing the sweeping fluid to flow from the first chamber 3 to the second chamber 4 direction, but not in the reverse direction. Alternatively, the barrier 14 or the seal may also include features that allow gas flow, in particular, for example, a plurality of perforations. The barrier 14 is typically made of metal, a metal alloy or a high temperature resistant fabric.

[0052] The system 1 even comprises at least one injector 21 capable of injecting at least one sweep fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. Figure 1-9In the embodiment shown, the term "injector" refers to a specific unit for injecting at least one sweep fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. Such an injector may, for example, comprise at least one sweep fluid injection lance extending into the first chamber 3. Such an injector may, for example, comprise a nozzle. Alternatively, the term "injector" may also refer to a simple opening in the system 1 through which at least one sweep fluid 8 may be introduced into the first chamber 3. The system 1 may also comprise a plurality of injectors 21, wherein each injector 21 is capable of injecting a different sweep fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. For example, one injector 21 may be arranged to inject a condensable gas into the first chamber 3, while another injector 21 may, for example, be arranged to inject a non-condensable gas into the first chamber 3, so that the injection of the sweep fluids is performed independently of each other when using condensable and non-condensable gases, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the steam as the condensable gas is injected via the cavity 31.

[0053] A plurality of injectors 21 can be provided, for example, each in the form of a separate purge fluid injection lance. Such purge fluid injection lances can, for example, be arranged around the feed lance 5. In this case, a protective tube can further be provided, which covers at least a portion of the plurality of injection lances 21 and at least a portion of the feed lance 5. Thus, various purge fluids 8 can be guided through at least a portion of the protective tube, but separated from the polymer waste feed. The protective tube as well as the feed lance 5 and the plurality of injection lances arranged in the protective tube are fixed, i.e. not configured to rotate. Alternatively or in addition, for example, an opening through the front end 24 of the hollow chamber 2 can also be provided for introducing at least one purge fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. At least one injector 21 can be included by the lance 5, or be independent of the lance 5.

[0054] A pressure gradient is generated between the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 so that a fluid flow, in particular an air flow, is formed in the direction from the first chamber 3 to the second chamber 4, in particular towards the gas outlet 20. In other words, a sweep fluid is used to enhance the flow from the first chamber 3 to the second chamber 4. The pressure gradient further enhances the flow towards the downstream post-processing section (not shown). Injecting the sweep fluid 8 into the first chamber 3 increases the pressure in the first chamber 3 so that the pressure in the first chamber 3 is greater than the pressure in the second chamber 4. The pressure gradient can be, for example, in the range of 0.1 to 5 kPa, for example, in the range of 0.5 to 2 kPa. The mass flow rate and / or flow rate of the sweep fluid through at least one injector can be adjustable to change the pressure gradient. The pressure in the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be monitored using pressure sensors, respectively.

[0055] For example, the sweep fluid 8 may be at least one of a condensable gas, steam, water, a non-condensable gas, nitrogen, a hydrocarbon or diesel. As described above, a combination of the above sweep fluids 8 may also be injected simultaneously into the first chamber 3. For example, water may be sprayed into the first chamber 3 through at least one nozzle comprised by at least one injector 21, or directly onto the heated inner surface of the wall of the hollow chamber 2 in the first chamber 3, thereby causing the water spray to vaporize immediately and generate steam in situ within the reactor, thereby eliminating the need for a separate steam generation unit. The sweep fluid is then allowed to flow from the first chamber 3 into the second chamber 4, for example via the opening 15. The flow of fluid from the first chamber 3 into the second chamber 4 avoids the backflow of gases 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste. The use of condensable gases, steam or water as the sweep fluid 8 is beneficial for post-processing purposes when the sweep fluid 8 must be separated from the product 13 at a subsequent stage.

[0056] Furthermore, the system comprises a gas outlet 20 arranged downstream of the at least one discharge outlet 6 for collecting the product 13 comprising at least one purge fluid 8 and a gas 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

[0057] According to certain embodiments, a compressor (not shown) may be optionally provided downstream of the gas outlet 20 for improving or assisting the flow of the product 13. The compressor may also be used to maintain the pressure in the first chamber 3 at a specific pressure, such as atmospheric pressure, and to provide a pressure below the specific pressure in the second chamber 4. In other words, the pressure in the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 may be regulated by injecting a purge fluid 8 into the first zone 3 and using a compressor. The compressor is capable of controlling the pressure in the area where the gas outlet 20 is located. The injection of the purge fluid 8 ensures that no air enters the system 1, and also serves to ensure that backflow is avoided and to reduce any possible disturbances in the gas flow. Since the system 1 may, for example, operate under a slight vacuum, it is susceptible to air leaking into the system 1. This may cause the hydrocarbons to burn and result in a fire and / or explosion. The combination of the compressor and the injection of the purge fluid 8 works as a system to provide guidance for the pyrolysis gas towards the outlet 20. In the event of a loss of normal vacuum conditions, the injection of the purge fluid 8 may prevent hydrocarbons from leaking out of the system 1.

[0058] Typically, a reduced pressure is provided at the location of at least one gas outlet 20 to create a vacuum in order to remove at least one sweep fluid 8 and gas 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste from the respective chamber 3 , 4 .

[0059] exist Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a heating system 19 of system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIG. Figure 1The hollow chamber 2 in the housing 9 is arranged in the housing 9. The heating system 19 has a first space 10 configured to receive a first heating gas having a first temperature T1. The first heating gas can be introduced into the first space 10 via at least one first heating gas inlet 26 and exported from the first space 10 via at least one first heating gas outlet 28. In addition, the heating system 19 has a second space 11 configured to receive a second heating gas having a second temperature T2. The second heating gas can be introduced into the second space 11 via at least one second heating gas inlet 27 and exported from the second space 11 via at least one second heating gas outlet 29. As can be seen, the first space 10 is aligned with or arranged adjacent to the first chamber 3, and the second space 11 is aligned with or arranged adjacent to the second chamber 4. For example, the first space 10 can be in the form of a first heating chamber having an annular cross section. The second space 11 can be in the form of a second heating chamber having an annular cross section. The first heating gas and the second heating gas can be the same or different from each other. Therefore, by heating the wall 18 of the rotatable hollow chamber 2, the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be heated respectively. The temperature of the wall 18 of the rotatable chamber 2 can be adjusted by changing the first temperature T1 of the first heating gas and / or the second temperature T2 of the second heating gas. The wall temperature of the hollow chamber 2 in the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be, for example, in the range of 200°C to 800°C. The temperatures in the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be the same or different from each other. For example, the temperature in the first chamber 3 can be 600°C, and the temperature in the second chamber 4 can be 550°C.

[0060] exist Figure 3 , a schematic diagram of another heating system 19 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. As can be seen, the heating system 19 is configured to heat only the second chamber 4. In this configuration, it is not possible to inject water as a purge fluid into the first chamber 3. However, any gaseous purge fluid can be injected into the first chamber 3. For example, steam generated by a steam generator can be injected into the first chamber 3 via at least one injector.

[0061] exist Figure 4 , a schematic diagram showing details of a heating system 19 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. As can be seen, the second space 11 includes a plurality of heating zones 30, wherein each heating zone 30 is configured to receive a heating element having a specific temperature T Z1 ,…,T Zn The number of heating zones 30 can be any integer greater than n=1. Thus, for example, the heating zones 30 can be heated with different or the same temperature T Z1 ,…,T Zn Heating. Temperature T Z1 ,…,T ZnThe temperature of the second chamber 4 is usually adjustable. For each heating zone 30, at least one heating gas inlet and at least one heating gas outlet are provided. Thus, each heating zone can be heated individually in order to generate a temperature gradient in the area of ​​the second chamber 4. In other words, due to the different heating zones 30, different heat zones are formed between adjacent areas in the second chamber. For example, the temperature can be higher in the area upstream of the flow direction of the sweep fluid 8 in the second chamber 4. The concept of the heating zone 30 can be combined with Figure 2 or Figure 3 The heating system 19 shown is either incorporated into an embodiment having a heating system 19 including a first space 10 and a second space 11 or incorporated into an embodiment having a heating system 10 including only the second space 11.

[0062] exist Figure 5 A schematic diagram of details of a hollow chamber 2 of a system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in . The system 1 includes at least one structure 17, which protrudes from an inner surface 18 of a rotatable hollow chamber 2 into the chamber 2 in the first chamber 3. The at least one structure 17 is a static or fixed structure. For example, a plurality of structures 17 in the shape of plates can be arranged in the first chamber 3. A plurality of plates are particularly beneficial for heat exchange in the first chamber 3. The heat provided by the heating system 19 can be transferred to the first chamber 3 of the hollow chamber 2 and distributed therein so as to quickly adjust or change the temperature in the first chamber 3. The plurality of at least one structure 17 is typically, but not necessarily, made of the same material as the hollow chamber 2. The material of the at least one structure typically has beneficial thermal conductivity properties.

[0063] exist Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a rotatable hollow chamber 2 of a system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in further detail. The system 1 includes at least one movable object 16, which is arranged in the first chamber 3 of the rotatable hollow chamber 2. For example, the at least one movable object 16 can be a steel ball that rolls in the first chamber 3 during the rotation of the hollow chamber 2. Alternatively or in addition, the movable object can also be a chain, for example. The at least one movable object 16 is typically, but not necessarily, made of the same material as the hollow chamber 2. The material of the at least one movable object 16 typically has beneficial thermal conductivity properties. A further benefit of the at least one movable object 16 is that during the rotation of the hollow chamber 2, the movable object 16 scrapes the inner surface 18 of the first chamber 3 for cleaning purposes.

[0064] exist Figure 7, a schematic diagram of further details of the hollow chamber 2 of the system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. According to the illustrated embodiment, the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 rotate separately. In other words, as shown by the arrows rpm1, rpm2, the rotation speed of the first chamber 3 can be different from the rotation speed of the second chamber 4. The rotation speed of each of the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be, for example, in the range of 0.1 to 5 revolutions per minute (rpm), for example, in the range of 1 to 2 rpm. However, both the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 or only the second chamber 4 can be heated as described above.

[0065] According to certain other embodiments, only the second chamber 4 rotates, while the first chamber 3 remains fixed. In this configuration, there is no Figure 6 The movable object is described in the first chamber 3. However, both the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 or only the second chamber 4 may be heated as described above.

[0066] exist Figure 8 A schematic diagram of yet further details of the hollow chamber 2 of the system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIG. The inner wall surface 12 in the second chamber 4 may be partially conical to prevent the distribution of plastic waste material in the direction of the barrier 14. The partially conical inner wall surface may be obtained, for example, by welding a hollow insert 33 having a conical inner surface to the barrier 14 and the inner wall of the hollow chamber 2 in the second chamber 4.

[0067] exist Fig. 9 , a schematic diagram of details of a system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown. The housing 9 includes a cavity 31 or space into which a sweeping fluid 8 in gaseous form can be introduced. A plurality of boreholes 32 are also provided through the front end 24 of the hollow chamber 2. Thus, the sweeping fluid 8 in gaseous form can flow into the first chamber 3 through the boreholes 32. The sweeping fluid 8 in gaseous form can be introduced into a system 1 having a fixed first chamber 3, or into a system 1 having first and second chambers 3, 4 that rotate separately or simultaneously. The cavity 31 itself does not rotate. In other words, Fig. 9 The detail shown shows an injector 21 for injecting a purge fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. One or more other purge fluids 8 may additionally be injected into the first chamber 3, for example by using one or more purge fluid lances as described above.

[0068] exist Fig.10 A schematic diagram of a system 1 according to at least some embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIG. The system 1 comprises a so-called reactor or rotary kiln reactor, particularly for thermally decomposing materials at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen or at low oxygen levels to avoid combustion of hydrocarbons. This process is also known as pyrolysis.

[0069] The working principle of the embodiment shown is similar to Figure 1-9 The working principle of the embodiment shown is different. In particular, at least one sweeping fluid 8 is injected both into the first chamber 3 and into the second chamber 4 contained by the hollow chamber 2 .

[0070] The hollow chamber 2 is typically in the form of an elongated hollow cylinder. The term "elongated" means that the length of the hollow cylinder is significantly greater than the diameter of the hollow cylinder. For example, the length of the hollow cylinder may be 18 m, and the diameter of the hollow cylinder may be 2 m. The hollow chamber 2 is typically made of metal or a metal alloy. At least the second chamber 4 is configured to rotate around an axis of rotation A. The axis of rotation A is typically oriented horizontally or substantially horizontally. The term "horizontally oriented axis" refers to an axis that is oriented perpendicular to the gravity vector or perpendicular to the normal to the earth's surface. Similarly, the term "substantially horizontally oriented axis" refers to an axis that is inclined a few degrees, for example less than 10 degrees, from an axis oriented perpendicular to the gravity vector or perpendicular to the normal to the earth's surface. In Fig.10 In the embodiment shown, only the second chamber 4 can be configured to rotate. According to other embodiments, the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 can be combined as shown. Figure 1 The disclosed simultaneous rotation, or as combined Figure 7 The first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 rotate respectively. The rotation speed of the first chamber 3 and / or the second chamber 4 may be, for example, in the range of 0.1 to 5 revolutions per minute (rpm), for example, in the range of 1 to 2 rpm.

[0071] The system also includes the above-mentioned Figure 1-4 Any of the heating systems (not shown) described above, that is, both the first and second chambers 3, 4 are heated separately, or only the second chamber 4 is heated. The heating zone of the second chamber 4 can also be heated separately to generate a temperature gradient in the area of ​​the second chamber 4.

[0072] The system 1 further comprises a lance 5 having at least one discharge opening 6. The lance 5 is fixed, i.e., the lance 5 is not configured to rotate, and at least a portion of the hollow chamber 2 is configured to rotate around the lance 5. The lance 5 can be, for example, in the form of a hollow cylinder. The central axis of the lance 5 is usually arranged or oriented coaxially with the rotation axis A. The lance 5 is usually made of metal or a metal alloy. The lance 5 extends in the hollow chamber 2 at least through the first chamber 3. Fig.10 As shown, the spray gun 5 can further partially extend into the second chamber 4. The system 1 is configured to feed polymer waste 7 into the second chamber 4 via at least one discharge port 6. The spray gun 5 is included in or coupled to a feed system (not shown). The feed system is typically an extrusion type feed system. The polymer waste 7 is (mainly) pre-melted in order to convert the feed into a flowable form to allow passage through the spray gun 5.

[0073] The polymer waste 7 material fed into the second chamber 4 via the at least one discharge port 6 of the lance 5 falls due to gravity onto the heated inner surface 12 of the second chamber 4. The rotation of the second chamber 4 causes the polymer waste material 7 to be distributed on at least a portion of the inner surface 12 of the second chamber 4. The distribution of the polymer waste material 7 on at least a portion of the inner surface 12 of the second chamber 4 can be improved by tilting the rotatable hollow chamber 2 by a few degrees, for example 3 to 5 degrees, from the horizontal axis. In this configuration, the rotatable hollow chamber 2 is arranged substantially horizontally.

[0074] The high temperature wall of the hollow chamber 2 causes thermal decomposition of the polymer waste material 7 in the second chamber 4, thereby converting the polymer waste material 7 into gases 22 and residues from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste. For example, the residues may contain inorganic substances or inorganic pollutants. The hollow chamber 2 shown includes a residue outlet 23 for the first chamber 3 and another residue outlet 23 for the second chamber 4.

[0075] The hollow chamber 2 also typically includes a barrier 14 or a seal between the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4. The barrier 14 or the seal is configured to allow a fluid flow, in particular a gas flow, from the second chamber 4 to the first chamber 3. For example, an opening 15 is provided between the barrier 14 and the lance 5. The opening 15 allows the purge fluid 8 and the gas 22 to flow from the second chamber 4 to the first chamber 3, but does not allow reverse flow. Alternatively, the barrier 14 or the seal may also include features that allow gas flow, i.e., for example, a plurality of perforations. The barrier 14 is typically made of metal, a metal alloy, or a high temperature resistant fabric.

[0076] The illustrated system 1 still further includes a plurality of injectors 21 capable of injecting at least one sweep fluid 8 into the first chamber 3 and additionally into the second chamber 4. In other words, the system 1 includes a cavity 31 or space within a housing (not shown) into which a sweep fluid 8 in gaseous form can be introduced. The cavity 31 is fixed as a part of the housing. A plurality of boreholes 32 are also provided through the front end 24 of the hollow chamber 2. Thus, the sweep fluid 8 in gaseous form can flow into the first chamber 3 through the boreholes 32. The sweep fluid 8 in gaseous form can be introduced into the first chamber 3 of a system 1 having a fixed first chamber 3, or into a system 1 in which the first and second chambers 3, 4 rotate separately or simultaneously. In other words, Fig.10 The cavity 31 shown represents the injector 21 for injecting the purge fluid 8 into the first chamber 3. One or more of the same or other purge fluids 8 may additionally be injected into the first chamber 3, for example by using one or more purge fluid spray guns as described above. Fig.10As shown, the same or another purge fluid 8 is injected into the second chamber 4. The injection of the purge fluid 8 into the second chamber 4 is usually carried out through the rear end 25 of the hollow chamber 2. For example, at least one further injection lance may be provided, and / or another cavity or space may be provided into which the purge fluid 8 in gaseous form may be introduced, i.e. similar to the front end of the reactor.

[0077] exist Fig.10 In the embodiment of the present invention, the term "injector" refers to a specific unit for injecting at least one purge fluid 8 into the first chamber 3 or the second chamber 4. For example, such an injector may include at least one purge fluid injection lance extending into the first chamber 3 or the second chamber 4. Such an injector may, for example, include a nozzle. Alternatively, the term "injector" may also refer to a simple opening in the system 1 through which at least one purge fluid 8 can be introduced into the first chamber 3. The system 1 may also include a plurality of injectors 21, wherein each injector 21 is capable of injecting a different purge fluid 8 into the first chamber 3 or the second chamber 4. For example, one injector 21 may be arranged to inject a condensable gas into the first chamber 3 or the second chamber 4, while another injector 21 may, for example, be arranged to inject a non-condensable gas into the first chamber 3 or the second chamber 4. The plurality of injectors 21 may, for example, each be provided in the form of a separate purge fluid injection lance. Such a purge fluid injection lance may, for example, be arranged around the feed lance 5. In this case, a protective tube may further be provided covering at least a portion of the plurality of injection lances 21 and at least a portion of the feed lance 5. Thus, various scavenging fluids 8 may be directed through at least a portion of the protective tube, but separately from the polymer waste feed. The protective tube as well as the feed lance 5 and the plurality of injection lances arranged in the protective tube are fixed, i.e., not configured to rotate. Alternatively or in addition, for example, an opening 32 may be further provided through the front end 24 of the hollow chamber 2 for introducing at least one scavenging fluid 8 into the first chamber 3; and / or through the rear end 25 of the hollow chamber 2 for introducing at least one scavenging fluid 8 into the second chamber 4. At least one injector 21 may be included by the lance 5, or may be independent of the lance 5. The mass flow rate and / or flow rate of the scavenging fluid through the at least one injector may be adjustable. The pressure in the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4 may be monitored using pressure sensors, respectively.

[0078] The sweep fluid 8 may be, for example, at least one of a condensable gas, steam, water, a non-condensable gas, nitrogen, a hydrocarbon or diesel. As described above, a combination of the above sweep fluids 8 may also be injected simultaneously into the first chamber 3 and the second chamber 4. For example, water may be sprayed into the first chamber 3 through at least one nozzle comprised by at least one injector 21, or directly onto the heated inner surface of the wall of the hollow chamber 2 in the first chamber 3, thereby causing the water spray to vaporize immediately and generate steam in situ in the reactor, thereby eliminating the need for a separate steam generation unit. The sweep fluid is then allowed to flow toward the gas outlet 20. The flow of fluid from the cavity 31 into the first chamber 3 avoids the backflow of the gas 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste. Thus, the cavity 31 retains solid material particles that are not carried toward the gas outlet 20. The use of a condensable gas, steam or water as the sweep fluid 8 is beneficial for post-processing purposes when the sweep fluid 8 must be separated from the product 13 at a subsequent stage.

[0079] Furthermore, the system 1 comprises a gas outlet 20 comprised by the first chamber 3 for collecting the product 13 comprising at least one sweep fluid 8 and gas 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste. By providing the gas outlet 20 in the first chamber 3, i.e. away from the second chamber 4, the content of solid material in the form of light particles or dust carried by the product 13 can be reduced. The pressure gradient between the hollow chamber 2 and the at least one gas outlet 20 is typically in the range of 0.1-5 kPa, such as 0.5-2 kPa. Typically, a reduced pressure is provided at the location of the at least one gas outlet 20, for example by using a compressor to generate a vacuum, in order to remove the at least one sweep fluid 8 and the gas 22 from the at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste from the respective chamber 3, 4.

[0080] The inner wall surface 12 in the second chamber 4 may be partially conical to prevent the distribution of plastic waste material in the direction of the barrier 14. The partially conical inner wall surface may be obtained, for example, by welding a hollow insert 33 having a conical inner surface to the barrier 14 and the inner wall of the hollow chamber 2 in the second chamber 4.

[0081] It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the specific structures, process steps or materials disclosed herein, but are extended to equivalents recognized by ordinary technicians in the relevant field. It should also be understood that the terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting.

[0082] Throughout this specification, reference to an embodiment or an embodiment means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in association with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in one embodiment" appearing in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. When a value is referred to using terms such as, for example, about or substantially, the exact value is also disclosed.

[0083] As used herein, for convenience, multiple items, structural elements, constituent elements and / or materials may be listed in a common list. However, these lists should be understood as if each member in the list is individually identified as an independent and unique member. Therefore, any single member in such a list should not be interpreted as being in fact equivalent to any other member in the same list solely based on their presentation in a common group, without any contrary indication. In addition, various embodiments and examples of the present invention and alternatives to its various components may be mentioned herein. It should be understood that such embodiments, examples and alternatives should not be interpreted as de facto equivalents of each other, but should be regarded as independent and autonomous expressions of the present invention.

[0084] In addition, the described features, structures or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the description, many specific details, such as embodiments of length, width, shape, etc., are provided to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of the present invention. However, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the present invention can be implemented without one or more specific details, or can be implemented using other methods, components, materials, etc. In other cases, in order to avoid obscuring various aspects of the present invention, well-known structures, materials or operations are not shown or described in detail.

[0085] Although the above embodiments illustrate the principles of the present invention in one or more specific applications, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that a large number of modifications may be made in form, usage and implementation details without exercising creative talent and without departing from the principles and concepts of the present invention. Therefore, it is not intended to limit the present invention except to the extent defined by the appended claims.

[0086] The verbs "comprise" and "include" are used in this document as open qualifiers, which neither exclude nor require the presence of unrecited features. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the features recited in the dependent claims are mutually freely combinable. Furthermore, it should be understood that the use of "a" or "an" throughout this document, i.e. the singular form, does not exclude the plural.

[0087] Industrial Applicability

[0088] At least some embodiments of the present invention have industrial applications in polymer waste processing.

[0089] Reference Mark List

[0090] 1 System

[0091] 2 Hollow Chambers

[0092] 3 First chamber

[0093] 4 Second chamber

[0094] 5 spray gun

[0095] 6 discharge port

[0096] 7 Polymer waste

[0097] 8. Cleaning fluid

[0098] 9 Shell

[0099] 10First Space

[0100] 11 Second Space

[0101] 12 Inner surface of the hollow chamber in the second chamber

[0102] 13 Products

[0103] 14 Barrier

[0104] 15 Opening

[0105] 16 Movable Objects

[0106] 17 Structure

[0107] 18 Inner surface of hollow chamber

[0108] 19 Heating system

[0109] 20 Gas outlet

[0110] 21 Injector

[0111] 22 Gas

[0112] 23 Residue export

[0113] 24Front End

[0114] 25 Backend

[0115] 26 First heating gas inlet

[0116] 27 Second heating gas inlet

[0117] 28 first heating gas outlet

[0118] 29 Second heating gas outlet

[0119] 30 heating zones

[0120] 31 Cavity

[0121] 32 Drilling

[0122] 33 Inserts

[0123] A. Axis of rotation.

Claims

1. A system (1), comprising: A hollow chamber (2), the hollow chamber (2) comprising a first chamber (3) and a second chamber (4), wherein the second chamber (4) is rotatable, or the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) are rotatable; a heating system (19) configured to heat the second chamber (4), or to heat the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4), respectively; a lance (5) having at least one discharge opening (6), wherein the lance (5) extends within the hollow chamber (2) at least through the first chamber (3), and wherein the system (1) is configured to feed polymer waste (7) into the second chamber (4) via the at least one discharge opening (6); and ● At least one injector (21), which is capable of injecting at least one sweeping fluid (8) into the first chamber (3), or into the first chamber (3) and into the second chamber (4) to form a fluid flow towards at least one gas outlet (20), wherein the at least one gas outlet (20) is used to collect a product (13), wherein the product (13) contains the at least one sweeping fluid and a gas (22) from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

2. The system (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The hollow chamber (2) comprises a barrier (14) between the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4), wherein an opening (15) is arranged between the barrier (14) and the spray gun (5).

3. The system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The system (1) comprises a compressor arranged downstream of the gas outlet (20).

4. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The hollow chamber (2) is at least partially arranged in a housing (9) comprising the heating system (19), wherein the heating system (19) comprises: ● a first space (10) and a second space (11), the first space (10) being configured to receive a first heated gas having a first temperature (T1), and the second space (11) being configured to receive a second heated gas having a second temperature (T2), wherein the first space (10) is aligned with the first chamber (3), and the second space (11) is aligned with the second chamber (4); or Only a second space (11) configured to receive a second heated gas having a second temperature (T2), wherein the second space (11) is aligned with the second chamber (4).

5. The system (1) according to claim 4, wherein: The second space (11) comprises a plurality of heating zones (30), wherein each heating zone (30) is configured to receive a liquid having a specific temperature (T Z1 , T Zn ) of the heating gas.

6. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The system (1) further comprises at least one movable object (16), wherein the at least one movable object (16) is arranged in the first chamber (3).

7. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The system (1) further comprises at least one structure (17) which protrudes from an inner surface (18) of the hollow chamber (2) into the chamber (2) in the first chamber (3).

8. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The system (1) is configured to inject at least one of the following via the at least one injector (21): ●Condensable gases; Steam; Water; ●Non-condensable gases; Nitrogen; or - Hydrocarbons, such as pyrolysis oil or diesel.

9. The system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The gas outlet (20) is comprised by the first chamber (3) or the second chamber (4).

10. A method comprising: ● providing a hollow chamber (2) comprising a first chamber (3) and a second chamber (4), wherein the second chamber (4) is rotated, or the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) are rotated; ● heating the second chamber (4), or heating the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) separately; a lance (5) having at least one discharge opening (6), wherein the lance (5) extends within the hollow chamber (2) at least through the first chamber (3) and feeds polymer waste into the second chamber (4) via the at least one discharge opening (6); ● Injecting at least one sweep fluid (8) into the first chamber (3), or into the first chamber (3) and into the second chamber (4) to form a fluid flow towards at least one gas outlet (20), wherein the at least one gas outlet (20) is used to collect a product (13), wherein the product (13) contains the at least one sweep fluid and a gas (22) from at least partially pyrolyzed polymer waste.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The wall temperature of the hollow chamber (2) in the first chamber (3) and the second chamber (4) is in the range of 500-800°C.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: The method further comprises: The hollow chamber is at least partially arranged in a housing (9) having a first space (10) and a second space (11); ● receiving a first heated gas having a first temperature (T1) in the first space (10), wherein the first space (10) is aligned with the first chamber (3); and ● receiving a second heated gas having a second temperature (T2) in the second space (11), wherein the second space (11) is aligned with the second chamber (4).

13. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein: The sweeping fluid is at least one of the following: ●Condensable gases; Steam; Water; ●Non-condensable gases; Nitrogen; - Hydrocarbons, such as pyrolysis oil or diesel.

14. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein: The pressure gradient between the hollow chamber (2) and the at least one gas outlet (20) is in the range of 0.1-5 kPa.

15. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising: • Pre-melting or extruding the polymer waste before feeding it into the second chamber (4).

16. The method according to any one of claims 10 to 15, further comprising: • Downstream of the gas outlet (20), the collected gas is liquefied.

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