Jurnal Teknologi
Vol. 18 No. 2 (2026): Jurnal Teknologi

Experimental Co-Pyrolysis of Polyethylene Cable Waste and LDPE Plastic: A Community-Scale Pyrolysis Machine in Yogyakarta

Seno Adi Prayitno (Pancasila University)
La Ode M. Firman (Pancasila University)
Dimas Bagus Wijanarko (Pancasila University)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Jul 2026

Abstract

The growing volume of plastic and electronic waste poses serious environmental challenges, particularly at the community level. Polyethylene (PE) cable sheath waste is commonly discarded after copper extraction, while Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) from household sources contributes significantly to non-biodegradable waste streams. This study investigates the co-pyrolysis of PE cable waste and LDPE plastic using a community-scale pyrolysis machine at the Go Green Waste Bank in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Experiments were conducted with three PE:LDPE feed ratios — 3:1, 1:1, and 1:3 — to evaluate the effect of feedstock composition on product yield and quality. The resulting pyrolysis oil was characterized for its physical and chemical properties. Results showed that the oil density ranged from 785.1 to 796.5 kg/m³ at 15°C, kinematic viscosity from 2.025 to 2.489 cSt at 40°C, and heating value from 45.797 to 46.014 MJ/kg. Sulfur content was low at less than 17 mg/kg, cetane number below 20.6, and flash point below 0°C, indicating predominance of light-to-medium hydrocarbon fractions. FTIR analysis confirmed hydrocarbon functional groups consistent with thermal polymer degradation. Among all ratios, the 1:3 PE:LDPE ratio produced oil with physical properties and thermal stability closest to conventional fuel. Although the oil does not directly meet diesel specifications, it shows strong potential as a blending fuel with diesel at 10–20%. Field application tests on a diesel-powered tractor demonstrated no significant operational issues. Solid residues were also repurposed as value-added community products, supporting sustainable zero-waste management. Keywords: Co-pyrolysis; Polyethylene cable waste; Low-density polyethylene (LDPE); Pyrolysis oil; Community-scale reactor; Waste-to-energy.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jurtek

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Computer Science & IT Engineering

Description

This journal is a scientific journal to develop knowledge in the field of Engineering & Technology. Editors invite professionals from education and researcher to write about the progress of science in the field of Engineering & Technology. The journal is published 2 (two) times in 1 year. ...