Paraffin-Olefin Content Analysis and Potential Solutions of Tar from Municipal Solid Waste Gasification Process in Indonesia

Abstract

Gasification technology at landfill in Indonesia is an application of the Waste-to-Energy (WtE) concept, which aims to address the challenges of municipal solid waste (MSW) management. The main problem with gasification technology is the production of tar (by-product). Tar formation can affect the results of syngas gasification and potentially pollute the environment if not properly managed.  The objective of this study is to analyze the existing conditions of gasification and tar charecterization, analyze potential benefits based on hydrocarbon components, and propose mitigation strategies for tar. A compositional analysis was conducted using GC-MS, FT-IR, and XRF instrument on tar samples extracted with different solvents. The findings indicated that characterization of tar revealed the mayor presence of aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds belonging to the alkane and alkene groups. The total content of paraffin-olefin compounds detected in the sample is 65.98% in n-heptane tar extract, 64.80 wt% in n-hexane, and 22.96% in ethyl acetate. Purification of paraffin-olefin from optimal tar extracted with n-heptane > n-hexane > ethyl acetate solvents. The infrared spectrum shows clear peaks in the C–H stretching group of the –CH₃ and –CH₂– groups (paraffin indicator), as well as the C=C stretching group of olefins (double bond indicator). The uniqueness of this study lies in its focus on detecting paraffin-olefin content and potential mitigation strategies for future management. Tar exhibited potential as a raw material for paraffin-olefin based products, which were widely used in the wax, lubricant, asphalt, and fuel industries. The extraction and utilization of these compounds could be achieved through purification techniques such as hydrocracking processes (destillation or pyrolysis) with the addition of specific compounds or catalysts. The selection of the most suitable extraction method depended on both the desired applications of tar derivatives and economic feasibility. This research contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 through the use of waste as an alternative material, as well as SDG 12 through cleaner production in gasification waste.