Optimization of Process Parameters by Taguchi Method: Catalytic degradation of polypropylene to liquid fuel

In this study, Taguchi method is used to identify the factors and their interactions that may affect the thermo -catalytic degradation of waste polypropylene to liquid fuel in a batch reactor. The yield of liquid fuel in this process was greatly influenced by factors such as temperature, catalyst concentration and acidity of catalyst. By using orthogonal experimental design and analysis technique, the performance of this process can be analyzed with more objective conclusion through only a small number of simulation experiments. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out to identify the significant factors affecting the response and the best possible factor level combination was determined through. Finally, a regression model for yield of liquid fuel from catalytic degradation of waste polypropylene has been developed, as a function of process parameters. It was found that yield of liquid fuel in this process were highly dependent on temperature followed by acidity of catalyst and catalyst concentration.