Session: 03-20-05: Manufacturing: General

Paper Number: 140719

140719 - Economically Viable 3d-Printed Setup to Produce Additive Manufacturing Feedstock Using Waste Bottles for Circular Economy 

The pursuit of sustainable practices in manufacturing has become increasingly imperative in addressing environmental concerns and resource scarcity. One promising avenue is using waste materials within a circular economy framework. In this paper, we propose an economically viable 3D-printed setup designed to produce additive manufacturing feedstock using waste bottles, thus contributing to the circular economy paradigm. The proposed setup integrates several innovative elements to optimize economic feasibility and environmental impact. Firstly, leveraging the versatility and accessibility of 3D printing technology, the setup is designed to be easily replicable and adaptable to various scales of operation, from small-scale community initiatives to larger industrial implementations. This scalability enhances its potential for widespread adoption and impact. Central to the setup is the utilization of waste bottles as feedstock. Plastic bottles, ubiquitous in modern society, represent a significant environmental burden when disposed of improperly. By repurposing these bottles into valuable raw materials for additive manufacturing, the setup not only diverts plastic waste from landfills and oceans but also reduces the reliance on virgin plastic, thus mitigating the environmental footprint associated with its production.

The process begins with the collection and preparation of waste bottles, which are sorted, cleaned, and cut into uniform strips suitable for extrusion. The plastic strips are transformed into filaments using a hotend volcano nozzle suitable for use in 3D printers. This closed-loop approach effectively demonstrates the principles of a circular economy, where waste is converted into a resource, perpetuating a sustainable cycle of production and consumption. To ensure economic viability, careful consideration has been given to the design and materials of the setup. Utilizing 3D printing technology allows for the fabrication of custom components at a relatively low cost, minimizing the initial investment required for implementation. Additionally, using locally sourced materials and open-source designs further reduces expenses and fosters accessibility, particularly in underserved communities or regions with limited resources. By maximizing resource utilization and minimizing energy consumption, the setup not only reduces operational costs but also enhances its overall sustainability. The proposed 3D-printed setup offers a practical and cost-effective solution for producing additive manufacturing feedstock from waste bottles within a circular economy framework. By repurposing waste materials into valuable resources, it addresses both environmental and economic challenges, contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable future for manufacturing. Through further research and development, this innovative approach holds the potential to catalyze positive change across industries, fostering a more circular and resilient economy.

Presenting Author: Ans Al Rashid Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar

Presenting Author Biography: Dr Ans Al Rashid is a Researcher at the Hamad Bin Khalifa University. His current research focuses on experimental and numerical study of 3D-printed polymer composites. He performs synthesis, 3D printing and mechanical and thermal characterization of these materials.

Authors:

Ans Al Rashid Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar
Muammer Koc Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar