A research team from the Chemical Engineering Study Program, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), received funding through the BIMA Doctoral Dissertation Research Program for the 2024 fiscal year. The research is entitled “Microwave-Assisted Co-Pyrolysis of Plastic Waste and Coffee Grounds as an Effort to Increase Fuel Yield.”

The research team is led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Renita Manurung, M.T., with Prof. Dr. Ir. Hamidah Harahap, M.Sc., Dr. Ir. Iriany, M.Si., and Wan Rizki Ansari as members. The team is developing research on the co-pyrolysis of plastic waste and coffee grounds using microwaves as the heating source.

The research involves the development of a microwave-assisted pyrolysis system, as well as an investigation of material mixing ratios, microwave power levels, and operating conditions. The process is aimed at producing pyrolysis oil while identifying processing conditions that can serve as a basis for further technological development.

The study has been published in the South African Journal of Chemical Engineering on the production of liquid fuel through the co-pyrolysis of high-density polyethylene and spent coffee grounds. The microwave-assisted pyrolysis technology is also reportedly undergoing the patent registration process, while the utilization of pyrolysis oil for industrial applications still requires further testing and development.

This research supports SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy through the development of waste-based alternative energy sources. The development of the pyrolysis equipment and process also contributes to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, while the reuse of plastic waste and coffee grounds is aligned with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Through this research, the Faculty of Engineering at USU reaffirms its commitment to developing engineering innovations relevant to energy needs and resource management. Strengthening research, scientific publications, and technological development is expected to create opportunities for the broader utilization of research outcomes while ensuring that the necessary testing and validation stages are carried out.