Environmental Impact of Waste Plastics and the Use of Waste Plastic-Derived Oil in Diesel Engines: A Literature Review

Volume: 11 | Issue: 02 | Year 2025 | Subscription
International Journal of I.C. Engines and Gas Turbines
Received Date: 12/05/2025
Acceptance Date: 12/08/2025
Published On: 2025-12-15
First Page: 11
Last Page: 17

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https://doi.org/10.37628/ijicegt.v11i02.22016

By: K. Manikandan, S. Devi, G. Neelagandan, and C Manikandan.

1 Assistant Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, FEAT, Annamalai University, India.
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, FEAT, Annamalai University, India.
3*Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Engineering, FEAT, Annamalai University, India.

Abstract

Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a major global environmental issue, affecting land, water, and living organisms. This review summarizes current research on how waste plastics enter the environment, how they move and break down, and the effects they create in ecosystems and on human health. Special attention is given to the growing problem of microplastics, which continue to accumulate in soil, freshwater bodies, and oceans. The review also discusses recent progress in converting waste plastics into usable oil through processes such as pyrolysis, catalytic cracking, and hydrothermal liquefaction. These methods show strong potential for recovering energy from plastic waste, producing oils that can be refined into fuel. However, challenges remain, including inconsistent oil quality, high energy demand, and the need for improved process control. Each conversion method has specific advantages and limitations, and further research is needed to make them more efficient and environmentally friendly. Another key focus of this review is the use of waste plastic oil (WPO) as an alternative fuel for diesel engines. Studies show that blending WPO with diesel can provide acceptable engine performance, especially at low blend ratios. Combustion characteristics such as ignition delay and fuel atomization influence how these blends behave inside the engine. While WPO blends can reduce certain emissions like particulate matter and carbon monoxide, they may increase nitrogen and sulfur oxides due to fuel composition. Engine modifications and emission-control technologies are therefore important to ensure cleaner operation. Overall, this review highlights both the opportunities and the challenges associated with converting plastic waste into fuel. Continued research is essential to improve conversion technologies, enhance fuel stability, reduce emissions, and support the development of waste plastic oil as a reliable and sustainable alternative energy source.

Keywords: Waste Plastics, Environmental, Diesel Engine, Emission, Performance.

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Citation:

How to cite this article: K. Manikandan, S. Devi, G. Neelagandan, and C Manikandan Environmental Impact of Waste Plastics and the Use of Waste Plastic-Derived Oil in Diesel Engines: A Literature Review. International Journal of I.C. Engines and Gas Turbines. 2025; 11(02): 11-17p.

How to cite this URL: K. Manikandan, S. Devi, G. Neelagandan, and C Manikandan, Environmental Impact of Waste Plastics and the Use of Waste Plastic-Derived Oil in Diesel Engines: A Literature Review. International Journal of I.C. Engines and Gas Turbines. 2025; 11(02): 11-17p. Available from:https://journalspub.com/publication/ijsmfe/article=22016

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https://doi.org/10.37628/ijicegt.v11i02.22016
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