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

Ramos W.; Blas N.; Peñaloza L.; Santillan M.; Huamán J.; Nahui-Ortiz J.; Erazo R. · Proceedings of the LACCEI international Multi-conference for Engineering, Education and Technology (2025) · DOI: 10.18687/laccei2025.1.1.1166

Resumen

The accumulation of disposable face mask waste due to the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the urgent need to develop sustainable solutions for their 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, aiming to assess their feasibility as an alternative fuel. To this end, blends containing 5%, 10%, and 15% of 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 meet the requirements established in Supreme Decree No. 092-2009-EM and its errata. The cetane index increased from 44.8 (base diesel) to 49.3 (with 15% PL), sulfur content decreased from 47 mg/kg to 13 mg/kg, and carbon residue was reduced from 0.08% to 0.05%. Viscosity and pour point remained stable (3.1–3.2 cSt and -27 °C, respectively). These improvements suggest that the blends can be used in diesel engines without compromising performance.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería