Abstract
The usage of bio-fibres and recycled materials is a growing approach to address the ecological problems being faced today. Inspired by the guidelines defining the Waste for Life initiative, the present study reports new composite materials, based on the recycling of high-impact polystyrene, found, for instance in yogurt cups, and paper plastic laminates, deriving from disposable paper cups. Given their recycling incompatibility, paper plastic laminates are either dumped in landfills or incinerated after their first usage, threatening the environmental condition. Therefore, through the development of a new composite solution, the goal was to reduce this damaging environmental impact by providing a second life to both paper plastic laminates and high-impact polystyrene. Samples presented overall good mechanical properties, from which it is highlighted a Young’s Modulus of 1.75 GPa and a Tensile Strength of 21.2 MPa, encouraging the application of the present material to identified global obstacles.
Highlights
“Waste for Life” (Waste for life, n.d.) is a loosely joined network of people who are developing poverty-reducing solutions to specific ecological problems”
The guidelines of the present project were drawn, intending to go further on establishing an alternative solution for the recycling of disposable paper cups, by re-utilizing the respective material combined further with reused polymers, for matrix enhancement, and fibre, for reinforcement, into forming an ecocomposite defined by relevant mechanical properties
The first peak was understood to represent the rupture of the paper plastic laminate (PPL), while in the second it was the glass fibre (GF)
Summary
“Waste for Life” (Waste for life, n.d.) is a loosely joined network of people who are developing poverty-reducing solutions to specific ecological problems” This initiative uses scientific knowledge and technology to add value to materials seen as waste by local communities and, if possible, develop a solution to local or regional problems. Waste for Life hopes to connect to cooperatives and community groups that are interested in adopting simple technologies to convert waste into useful products They are not interested in profit, but rather keen in disseminating a technology that upgrades waste plastic bags and cardboard into composite materials for domestic products, such as furniture, or in building materials such as ceiling tiles for insulation.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
