Kinetics of reactions of coal with polystyrene: TGA-DSC approach

Kinetics of thermal reactions of coal with polystyrene by TGA and DSC methods was studied. In the range of about 350-550°C a thermal degradation of coal proceeds, and gas, tar and coke are evolved. Simultaneously, decomposition of polystyrene occurs (360-470°C). Unsaturated products of polystyrene decomposition are hydrogenated by coal, because coal is a strong H-donor. Moreover, some aromatic products react with coal tar structures and new aromates are formed. The yield of tar from copyrolysis is then higher in comparison with pyrolysis of coal alone. Kinetic parameters of the process were evaluated and discussed.