Innovative and Cost-effective Upcycling of Thermoset Plastic Waste for Sustainable Household Furniture Production

Abstract

The current study aims to address the persistent challenge of recycling thermoset plastics, which are renowned for their inherent properties that render traditional recycling methods impractical. It proposes an innovative solution by repurposing thermoset plastics as reinforcing agents in non-critical load-bearing components of household furniture, thereby reducing reliance on new raw materials. The proposed approach involves customizing furniture designs to integrate upcycled thermoset plastics for reinforcement, departing from conventional recycling practices thereby, mitigating environmental impact and simultaneously offering a practical alternative to traditional recycling methods. Through the integration of upcycled thermoset plastics into furniture production, this study demonstrates a tangible reduction in the demand for virgin plastic materials. This not only fosters environmental sustainability but also addresses the challenge of managing non-recyclable thermoset waste, contributing to a cleaner environment. The innovative strategy outlined in this paper not only paves the way for a more eco-friendly and economically viable future in household furniture production but also presents additional ideology for sustainable material utilization and waste reduction, such as exploring composite options like plastic decking using upcycled thermoset plastic and sawdust.