The effects of microwave plasma torch on the cracking of Pyrolysis Fuel Oil feedstock

•Pyrolysis Fuel Oil (PFO) was processed by Microwave plasma torch.•The power and flow rate of carrier gases on the cracking operation were studied.•The increase of the power results in more products.•The production rate of products increase with increasing the flow rate.

Cracking of Pyrolysis Fuel Oil (PFO) using a microwave plasma torch in liquid has developed a new process for production of valuable petrochemical hydrocarbons. Main parameters, including the power and flow rate of the carrier gases on the cracking operation were studied. The major products obtained were hydrogen and light C1, C2, C3, and C4 hydrocarbon compounds. Increasing of the power and gas flow improved the cracking of PFO, but, they were unable to change the selectivity of products. Optimal conditions were 850 W for power and 5000 sccm (ml/min) for flow rate and the production rate of C4 and H2 were 27.37 sccm and 446.31 sccm, respectively.