Browsing by Author "Chiza Maisha Augustin"

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    Assessing the Suitability of Kaolin as a Catalyst for Polyethylene Plastic Waste Pyrolysis : A Case Study Kikuubo Uganda
    (Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Chiza Maisha Augustin
    The growing accumulation of polyethylene plastic waste in urban centers like Kikuubo Market, Kampala, Uganda presents severe environmental and public health challenges, exacerbated by ineffective traditional waste management strategies. This study addresses these challenges by assessing the suitability of kaolin, a naturally abundant clay mineral sourced from Buwambo deposit in Wakiso District, as a catalyst for the pyrolysis of polyethylene plastic waste. X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis confirmed the kaolin’s catalytic potential, with high levels of silicon dioxide (53.67%) and aluminium oxide (24.47%). Controlled pyrolysis experiments were conducted at 420°C and a heating rate of 10°C/min using varying kaolin-to-polyethylene mix ratios (0-20 wt%). The 16 wt% kaolin-to-plastic ratio achieved the highest oil yield of 75.67%, a notable improvement from 65.67% in non-catalytic pyrolysis. Additionally, the reaction time decreased from 91minutes (control) to 74minutes at this optimal loading, enhancing overall process efficiency. A cost-benefit analysis showed a net profit of 1,365 UGX/kg with kaolin, compared to 789 UGX/kg without, confirming the economic feasibility of the approach. Compared to synthetic zeolite and bagasse ash, kaolin offers superior performance due to its local availability and minimal processing needs. These findings highlight kaolin’s potential to enhance the pyrolysis process, offering a scalable and sustainable approach to plastic waste management and energy recovery in developing regions.