Pyrolysis oil is a product obtained from the thermal decomposition of organic materials at high temperatures under anaerobic conditions. Due to its potential applications across various industries, it has attracted great interest. One common question is: Is pyrolysis oil classified as light oil or heavy oil? Please read on.

How to Distinguish Light Oil or Heavy Oil?
To determine whether pyrolysis oil from pyrolysis machine is classified as light or heavy, it is essential to understand the characteristics of these two types of oils:
| Types | Light Oil | Heavy Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Density (kg/m³) | Low | High |
| Viscosity (cP) | Low | High |
| Boiling Point (°C) | Low | High |
| Fluidity | Good | Poor |
| Volatility | High | Low |
| Common Applications | Transportation fuel, chemical feedstocks and solvents, etc. | Industrial fuels for power generation, boiler fuels, etc. |
| Examples | Gasoline, kerosene, naphtha, light diesel, etc. | Diesel, heavy fuel oil, asphalt, residuum, etc. |


Is Pyrolysis Oil Considered Light Oil or Heavy Oil?
The composition and characteristics of pyrolysis oil can vary depending on the feedstock used (waste tyres, waste plastics) and the specific conditions of the pyrolysis process. Here analyze the general characteristics exhibited by pyrolysis oil from tyre/oil sludge/plastic pyrolysis machine.
- Density and Viscosity: Compared to light oils, pyrolysis oil generally has higher density and viscosity. This is due to its complex mixture of high molecular weight compounds, such as phenols and heavy hydrocarbons. Therefore, pyrolysis oil can exhibit characteristics more akin to heavy oils.
- Boiling Point: Pyrolysis oil has a wide range of boiling points, with many of its components boiling at higher temperatures. This is more characteristic of heavy oils.
- Applications: Pyrolysis oil contains both light and heavy oil fractions, making it versatile. The light fractions allow it to be used as a feedstock for refining lighter fuels such as gasoline or diesel. Its heavy fractions make it suitable for use as an industrial fuel in boilers and power plants.
In summary, due to its higher density, viscosity, and boiling point, pyrolysis oil typically has characteristics closer to heavy oil. However, its diverse chemical composition and potential applications mean it cannot be exclusively classified as light or heavy oil. Instead, it represents a unique type of oil that fills the gap between light and heavy oils depending on its specific properties and intended uses. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for optimizing its applications and enhancing its performance in various industrial processes.