The main objective of the present research work is to evaluate both the process performance and characteristics of the products obtained from the treatment of automobile shredder residue (ASR) using a pilot scale experimental pyrolysis plant operating under different load and varying process temperatures. ASR samples used for the treatment, solid and liquid by-products obtained and syngas produced were analysed both through on-line monitoring (gas) and laboratory analysis. Brief descriptions of the plant as well as the preliminary experimental results obtained are presented here. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.