Tons Of Plastic Waste Research Articles

Microplastics: Features of appearance, identification methods (subject review)

Polymer packaging materials have become firmly embedded in our way of life. They are used in the manufacture of household items, as well as in the pharmaceutical, chemical, and automotive industries. Production and application of polymer packaging are expanding rapidly encompassing various spheres of the industry. According to Plastics Europe Market Research Group (PEMRG), global plastics production reached 348 million tons in 2017 and is likely to reach 33 billion tons by 2050. At the same time, about 26 million tons of plastic waste are generated annually on the territory of the European Union (EU), of which only 30% is collected for recycling. Despite this, in many countries of the world, including Russia, more than 50% of polymer materials are disposed of at landfills, where under the influence of external environmental factors (temperature, humidity), their destruction occurs with the formation of huge quantities of micro- and nanoplastics. Most people do not consider the environmental problems associated with microplastics to be serious. However, many studies aimed at in-depth study of this problem have proved that micro- and nanoplastics have significant negative effects on terrestrial and marine animals, as well as on human health, whether directly or indirectly. The identification of microplastics in various model environments and living systems is usually based on the use of infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectrophotometry. Each of the methods has its advantages and disadvantages, mainly related to sample preparation to improve the accuracy of identification. This review is devoted to the problem of formation and identification of microplastics in various natural objects.

A Business Management Model in the Circular Economy: Technological Solutions for Plastic Recycling

Objectives: this article develops a model for managing business processes in a circular economy using technologies for plastic recycling. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical idea and basis of the article consists in the development of project management methodology, process approach in the closed-loop economy, development of methods and economic tools aimed at effective resource management taking into account waste reduction and increased reuse of plastic fractions in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW). The application of digital technologies and solutions in the context of business process management in the field of plastics recycling will be substantiated, which will allow to identify new opportunities and reserves for optimising business processes in this field, increasing the efficiency of resource use, improving the environment and reducing costs. Method: the work uses a project approach, a process approach, digital modeling methods, and the “polluter pays” method. To implement the process approach, it is proposed to use the concept of Business Process Management (BPM). Competent business process management allows the company to react quickly to changing market conditions and customer orientation. Digital modelling in this paper means the representation of actions in the form of business processes in the organisation of solid waste management, the 'polluter pays' method means the economic assessment and accounting of environmental damage in waste management in the costs of business processes. Results and Discussion: The results of the study can be used to introduce the process approach to plastics recycling in individual regions and countries for the development of a green economy. According to the estimates of the authors, the optimisation and cost reduction of business processes, taking into account the environmental factor and the increase of the revenue part of the project from the reuse and inclusion in the economic turnover of plastic waste recycling products on the scale of the considered city (population of 1800 thousand people, area of 2856 ha, 18.14 tonnes of plastic waste accumulated per day) will reduce the costs of business process management by more than 200 thousand euros. Research Implications: the results of the study can be used to justify projects for the processing and recycling of solid municipal waste, including plastic waste, to introduce environmentally friendly production, to reduce the negative impact on the environment, to develop a process approach to the organisation of all activities for the collection of plastic waste in the city, district. In addition, the application of the proposed approach allows to obtain economic benefits for companies through the sale of secondary resources for the processing of plastic waste, as well as to reduce the negative impact on the environment. Originality/ Value: The originality of the research and its value lies in a new scientific formulation of the problem of reducing environmental pollution from plastic waste through the use of business processes in the field of plastic recycling and digital solutions, as well as the possibility of practical application of the results obtained in the field of green economy.

Wasted shores: Using drones to monitor the spatio-temporal evolution of debris accumulation hotspots on South Africa's Umgeni River

Rivers are major contributors of plastic waste to the oceans. Running through the northern part of the 1.3 million-inhabitants City of Durban, South Africa, the Umgeni River is estimated to flush in the order of tens to hundreds of tonnes of plastic waste into the Indian Ocean every year. The riverbanks are lined with plastic and other macro-waste accumulation zones formed due to direct littering and occasional deposition of river debris loads. This study presents the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and hydro-meteorological sensors to (1) identify, quantify and monitor such anthropogenic macro-waste hotspots; and (2) investigate the influence of rainfall, river water level and a major flood event on the spatio-temporal evolution of the hotspots, evidencing the debris' availability to leak into the Indian Ocean. The one-year aerial monitoring (2021−2022) of waste hotspots shows that extreme hydrometeorological events have an immediate but short-term effect on the erosion of debris stocks in riverine systems. We observe that reduction in mean index changes of hotspot surface area after flooding were 2–5 times higher than in non-flood conditions. Despite visual evidence of seasonality in debris erosion between the wet and dry season, only the 'natural' type hotspots showed a significant change. Our findings support reported inconsistencies of macro-debris erosion with hydrological factors. Although the data contributes a baseline for macro-debris erosion in the Umgeni River, future ground truth sampling and finer monitoring scales are important to fully understand debris transfer in river systems. The mapping of waste hotspots and understanding their spatio-temporal transfer dynamics supports policymakers in planning and timing to mitigate environmental pollution.

Occurrence and visual characterization of microplastics from Mahakam River at Tenggarong City, Indonesia

Indonesia generates approximately 7.8 million tons of plastic waste annually, which 4.9 million tons is mismanaged. Presently, there is significant concern on microplastics (MPs) pollution in aquatic environment. The research on the prevalence of MPs in river systems are comparatively lower than the studies conducted on marine systems. The primary goal of this research was to look into the prevalence of MPs in the river water of Mahakam of Tenggarong City, Indonesia. To adequately represent this area, a meticulous selection method was used to find five separate sampling locations, with two stations at each location, positioned 200 m apart on opposite sides of the river. According to the study's findings, MPs has been observed in the range of 19.2 ± 1.8 to 58.5 ± 3.5 particles/l. Based on the MPs type, fragments (43.4 %) were the most common type of MPs found in water samples. Furthermore, 44.6 % of the MPs had size smaller than 1000 μm. The prevalent hues observed in the water samples were transparent and black, composing 75.6 % of overall formation. The determination of microplastic polymers employed Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy, revealing the presence of various type, such as polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP).

Closing the Loop between Plastic Waste Management and Energy Cogeneration: An Innovative Design for a Flexible Pyrolysis Small-Scale Unit

This study proposes a simplified unit that can be employed in an industrial facility for the utilization of its own abundant plastic waste, primarily from discarded packaging, to achieve full or partial energy autonomy. By converting this waste into synthetic pyrolysis oil equivalent to 91,500 L, the industry can power a combined heat and power generation unit. The proposed unit was designed with a focus on maintaining high temperatures efficiently while minimizing oxygen exposure to protect the integrity of hydrocarbons until they transform into new compounds. Pyrolysis stands as a foundational procedure, paving the way for subsequent thermochemical transformations such as combustion and gasification. This study delves into the factors affecting pyrolysis and presents analytically the mathematical formulations and relevant calculations in order to effectively design and apply a real-life system. On this basis, fuels from plastic waste can be produced, suitable for utilization in typical equipment meant to produce heat, estimated for six months’ operation and 800 MWh of electricity. This study enhances the transition towards a more circular and resource-efficient economy with technologies that unlock the latent energy contained within the discarded matter. Additionally, it demonstrates the feasibility of a moderate investment in a co-generation system for industries utilizing 568 tonnes of plastic waste per year. The design and accurate calculations of this study highlight the theoretical potential of this technology, promoting environmental sustainability and resource conservation.

Effect of Adding Polypropylene Plastic Waste on Compressive Strength and Flexural Strength Concrete

Indonesia is the second largest producer of plastic waste in the world after China with an annual contribution of 187.2 million tons of plastic waste. This study aims to analyze the effect of the addition of plastic seeds with polypropylene substitution on the compressive strength and flexural strength of concrete with the intention of reducing waste waste and utilizing it as a concrete mixing material and making concrete properties into green concrete. The method used is the experimental method by making several variations of concrete mixtures with plastic seeds of polypropylene type as a substitute for part of the sand. The mixing of plastic seeds is divided into several variations, namely, 3% polypropylene seeds and 6% polypropylene seeds. Analysis of the test results of the addition of polypropylene seeds compared to the concrete mixture without polypropylene seeds resulted in a compressive strength of 24.14 MPa for the addition of 3%, as well as a value of 23.25 MPa for the addition of 6% each at 28 days of concrete age. As for the flexural strength, an increase value of 0.16 MPa was obtained for the addition of 6% and the addition of 3% at the age of 28 days. This study shows that the results of the study have reached the planned quality target, namely the quality of fc'20 Mpa.

Integrated approach of waste analysis and life cycle assessment for the management of non-recyclable plastics in recycling shops

The unbound usage of plastic products in modern society has brought convenience and poses significant environmental challenges. Recycling Shops (RS) are vital in mitigating plastic waste problems in urban waste management. During the recycling process, RS generates non-recyclable plastics that demand scientific solutions for its management. This study conducted material flow analysis (MFA) to estimate the yearly recycled plastic waste in the RSs of Khulna City. Subsequently, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was performed to explore the suitable management facilities for non-recyclable plastics. The results highlighted the contribution of the informal plastic recycling sector to the city's waste management system by recycling 6324 tons of plastic waste per year. Polypropylene (PP) and Polyethylene (PE) were the most abundant polymers among the recycling plastics in RS. The LCA results revealed that among the five considered cases, Open Burning showed the maximum impact on the environment while Sanitary Landfill exhibited the lowest environmental impact across eighteen impact categories. The sanitary landfilling of non-recyclable plastics was identified as an environmentally friendly approach for managing non-recyclable plastics. This study addressed the urgency for appropriately managing non-recyclable plastics to protect the human and environment from plastic pollution in Bangladesh including recommendations for improving current practices.

Enhancing circular plastic waste management: Reducing GHG emissions and increasing economic value in Rayong province, Thailand

This study evaluates the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and economic value creation of plastic waste (PW) management in Rayong, Thailand, a city on the eastern Gulf Coast with a significant amount of generated and leaked PW. By analyzing current practices, and developing and evaluating improvement scenarios, the study explores strategies for reducing GHG and enhancing economic benefits across the PW management chain. Four primary routes with varying capacities handle approximately 5,445.55 tonnes of PW via source separation recycling (5.18 %), post-sorting recycling (9.30 %), energy recovery (54.86 %), and landfills or opened dump disposal (30.66 %). About 83.21 % of the 16 ± 6.9 % PW in municipal solid waste (MSW) is recyclable, primarily consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The current management practice generates an economic benefit of approximately 1.68 million USD/yr or 310 USD/t of PW, compared to the proposed scenarios, which enhances recycling efficiency and reduces landfill and energy recovery waste, yielding 2.27–6.48 million USD/yr or 420.64–1200.33 USD/t of PW. The practice emits about 7,028.47 tCO2e annually, while improved source and post-sorting efficiencies reduce GHG emissions by 2.86–3.17 times or −2.83 to −2.42 tCO2e/t of PW or a total of over 13,078.60–15,268.44 tCO2e. Burning PW increases approximately 1.6 times or 11,841.36 tCO2e/yr. Enhancing recycling efficiency, particularly through source separation, is key to promoting more productive and valuable PW separation, increasing economic value and GHG mitigation by approximately 3.87 and 3.17 times, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights for local authorities and policymakers to develop strategic interventions and policies that align with the improved scenario by enhancing source separation and recycling. The results demonstrate that improving the efficiency of separation at the source is critical for transitioning from a linear PW management strategy to a circular economy, significantly reducing landfill waste and mitigating environmental threats.

Driving green purchasing: how knowledge and consciousness shape attitudes and intentions to use plastic bottles in East Java

As a country contributing 1.4 tons of plastic waste to the world's waters, Indonesia requires a mature green concept implementation from various stakeholders. However, it is regrettable that no FMCG company has a comprehensive strategy to commit to switching from single-use plastics. This concept enables companies to play in an underutilized niche market. This study fills the knowledge gap by investigating the complex relationship between environmental knowledge, environmental concern, consumer attitudes, and purchase intentions for plastic-bottled beverages. Data were obtained through an online questionnaire distributed to 297 respondents in the East Java. Data were processed using path analysis, revealing that environmental knowledge and concern, as well as consumer attitudes, have a positive and significant relationship with green purchase intention. Environmental knowledge and concern also positively and significantly affect consumer attitudes. Moreover, positive consumer attitudes can reduce the influence of environmental knowledge and concern on purchasing environmentally friendly products. This confirms that positive consumer attitudes towards environmentally friendly products are not the only factor influencing their purchase intentions.

Appraisal of awareness about single use plastic bags (supbs) among consumers and shopkeepers of Lanka market, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract The awareness level of humans varies depending upon various known and unknown factors. Environmental awareness of an individual is the reflection of his/her thoughts, feelings and sensitivities towards the environment and its associated problems like degradation. It is the most important parameter for the measurement of implementation of government’s policies designed for the safeguard of environment and other related issues. The Indian Government decision for the complete ban on the Single-Use Plastic Bags (SUPBs) has been implemented in the whole country since 01 July 2022. Single-use plastic bags pose serious concerns for the environment and the economy of the country. The consumption as well as the disposal of plastic-related products is increasing day by day in India. Around 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste are generated every year (CPCB 2020). The present paper is about the appraisal of the awareness level of consumers and shopkeepers about the use of plastic bags. In the present study, the primary survey is conducted to understand the awareness of consumers and shopkeepers regarding Single-Use Plastic Bags (SUPBs) in Lanka market, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The study tries to relate the level of literacy, economic status, hesitation to carry own bags and demand for the plastic bags with the environment awareness level. Study reflects, there is a strong relationship between uses of plastic bags with economic, social, cultural, political status of the people. It also reflects the lack of enforcement of policies about the Single-Use Plastic Bags (SUPBs).

Aplicações da nanotecnologia em embalagens inteligentes para alimentos

The growing demand for food has contributed to the increase in plastic waste, mainly from packaging. In 2020, only 23.1% of post-consumer plastic waste was recycled in Brazil, resulting in a significant amount of non-biodegradable waste that remains in the environment for long periods, affecting human health and the environment. Most of this waste comes from traditional petroleum-based food packaging, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. It is estimated that annually, 31.9 million tons of plastic waste enter the environment, with a considerable portion contaminating the oceans. Despite these environmental challenges, the demand for plastics is expected to continue to grow to meet society's resource-efficient needs (FERREIRA et al., 2022).

Current paradigms and future challenges in harnessing gut bacterial symbionts of insects for biodegradation of plastic wastes.

The ubiquitous incorporation of plastics into daily life, coupled with inefficient recycling practices, has resulted in the accumulation of millions of metric tons of plastic waste, that poses a serious threat to the Earth's sustainability. Plastic pollution, a global problem, disrupts the ecological balance and endangers various life forms. Efforts to combat plastic pollution are underway, with a promising avenue being biological degradation facilitated by certain insects and their symbiotic gut microorganisms, particularly bacteria. This review consolidates existing knowledge on plastic degradation by insects and their influence on gut microbiota. Additionally, it delves into the potential mechanisms employed by insects in symbiosis with gut bacteria, exploring the bioconversion of waste plastics into value-added biodegradable polymers through mineralization. These insights hold significant promise for the bio-upcycling of plastic waste, opening new horizons for future biomanufacturing of high-value chemicals from plastic-derived compounds. Finally, we weigh the pros and cons of future research endeavors related to the bioprospection of plastic-degrading bacteria from underexplored insect species. We also underscore the importance of bioengineering depolymerases with novel characteristics, aiming for their application in the remediation and valorization of waste plastics.

Upaya Pengurangan Limbah Kemasan Plastik Air Minum Melalui Kajian Kualitas Keran Air Siap Minum (KASM) di Wilayah Kota Bogor

Sales of bottled drinking water (AMDK) increase in line with population growth every year. Based on data from the Indonesian Plastic Industry Association (Inaplas) and BPS, Indonesia produces 64 million tons of waste/year, and 3.2 million tons of plastic waste comes from AMDK. In connection with the community's dependence on consuming AMDK, the government through the Regional Public Company (PERUMDA) Tirta Pakuan created a superior program, namely Tap Water Ready to Drink (KASM). The problem is that many residents do not take advantage of KASM's services. The aim of this research is to compare the quality of AMDK and KASM so that the public can obtain information and increase confidence in the quality, safety and cleanliness of drinking water originating from KASM. This research method includes sampling followed by analysis of physical parameters (color, odor, taste, temperature), chemical (turbidity, TDS, metals, pH, Cl-, F-, NO2-, NO3-, NH3, hardness, CN -, SO42-) and Total microbiology (Coliform, E.coli) based on quality standards PERMENKES 492/2010. KASM samples were taken at 6 points using the SNI 8995:2021 method. The AMDK sample was obtained by purchasing 5 brands of AMDK randomly. Physical, chemical and microbiological parameters were analyzed using the APHA, SNI, US-EPA methods using ICP-OES, UV-Vis spectrophotometer and nephelometer. The results show that all KASM and AMDK samples have met the quality standards of PERMENKES 492/2010. Based on the comparison of analysis results, all AMDK samples had lower quality compared to KASM samples even though other microbiological, chemical and physical parameters were not significantly different.

Perancangan Aplikasi Waste Bank dengan Teknologi Blockchain

The growth of blockchain technology has created significant demand for Solidity developers, especially in the development of smart contracts. This research presents the latest data regarding the surge in job vacancies for Solidity Blockchain Developers in Indonesia, highlighting more than 5,000 vacancies in October 2022 according to Tech in Asia. Meanwhile, a report from the United Nations Environment Agency (UNEP) confirms the escalation of the global plastic waste and waste problem. With more than 380 million tons of plastic waste generated every year, and only a small portion being recycled, plastic waste poses a serious threat to marine and terrestrial ecosystems. In addition, the impact of climate change is increasing with methane produced from organic waste in conventional landfills.

Nanoplastic pollution changes the intestinal microbiome but not the morphology or behavior of a freshwater turtle

Humans produce 350 million metric tons of plastic waste per year, leading to microplastic pollution and widespread environmental contamination, particularly in aquatic environments. This subsequently impacts aquatic organisms in myriad ways, yet the vast majority of research is conducted in marine, rather than freshwater systems. In this study, we exposed eggs and hatchlings of the Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) to 80-nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) and monitored the impacts on development, behavior and the gut microbiome. We demonstrate that 80-nm PS-NPs can penetrate the eggshell and move into developing embryos. This led to metabolic impairments, as evidenced by bradycardia (a decreased heart rate), which persisted until hatching. We found no evidence that nanoplastic exposure affected hatchling morphology, growth rates, or levels of boldness and exploration, yet we discuss some potential caveats here. Exposure to nanoplastics reduced the diversity and homogeneity of gut microbiota in P. sinensis, with the level of disruption correlating to the length of environmental exposure (during incubation only or post-hatching also). Thirteen core genera (with an initial abundance >1 %) shifted after nanoplastic treatment: pathogenic bacteria increased, beneficial probiotic bacteria decreased, and there was an increase in the proportion of negative correlations between bacterial genera. These changes could have profound impacts on the viability of turtles throughout their lives. Our study highlights the toxicity of environmental NPs to the embryonic development and survival of freshwater turtles. We provide insights about population trends of P. sinensis in the wild, and future directions for research.

Assessment of plastic waste management in Bangladesh: A comprehensive perspective on sorting, production, separation, and recycling

The handling of plastic garbage has become a significant environmental and social issue worldwide, including in Bangladesh. This study thoroughly evaluates the methods used in Bangladesh for managing plastic trash, explicitly focusing on sorting, manufacturing, separation, and recycling. The research utilizes qualitative and quantitative methods, such as surveys, interviews, and analysis of existing data, to get insights into the present condition of plastic waste management infrastructure, policies, and practices in Bangladesh. This text examines the difficulties and advantages of categorizing plastic garbage, including the involvement of the informal sector and the absence of organized procedures. In addition, the research examines the manufacturing and consumption habits that contribute to the accumulation of plastic trash, emphasizing the necessity for sustainable alternatives and efforts to raise consumer awareness. The global mismanagement rate is 22%, and the recycling rate for plastic trash is 9%, which is lower. Six hundred forty-six metric tons of plastic waste are collected daily in Bangladesh, yet only 10% of that waste is recycled, and 37.2% needs to be correctly disposed of. Many techniques are utilized to recycle plastic trash worldwide, but Bangladesh wants to recycle 50% of plastic garbage by 2025. Moreover, the research investigates methods for separating plastic waste, highlighting adequate segregation's significance in streamlining recycling procedures. The process assesses current recycling activities and infrastructure, pinpointing any deficiencies and potential opportunities for enhancement. The analysis highlights the importance of improving recycling capability and advocating for circular economy concepts to reduce plastic pollution and prevent resource depletion. In summary, this comprehensive analysis of plastic waste management in Bangladesh provides significant insights for policymakers, industrial players, and civil society participants.

Indonesia Paradox on Plastic Waste Import in International Policy and Social Movement Perspective

Indonesia, recognized as the second largest marine polluter globally, faces a significant environmental crisis despite stringent international policies and vigorous social movements advocating for sustainability. According to data from INAPLAS and BPS, Indonesia generates 64 million tons of plastic waste annually, with 3.2 million tons ending up in the sea. The waste management system in Indonesia is rudimentary, involving basic stages of collection, transportation, and disposal, with processing occurring only at the final destination. Amidst this waste crisis, Indonesia continues to import plastic waste from countries such as the United States, Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong, exacerbating the environmental and health hazards. This paper explores the paradox of plastic waste import in Indonesia, focusing on how international policies, including the Basel Convention and its recent amendments, intersect with local regulations and their enforcement. It also examines the role of social movements in combating plastic waste imports and advocating for environmental sustainability. The central problem addressed is the regulatory and social polemic surrounding waste importation in Indonesia, considering the social, political, and legal dimensions. Employing a conceptual and statute approach, the paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the waste import regulation issues linked to social problems within Indonesian society. It argues that the complexity of international trade, economic incentives, and insufficient regulation enforcement contribute to the paradoxical situation where policies and advocacy efforts seem misaligned with outcomes. The findings offer social and juridical recommendations for the Indonesian government and society to address the waste import dilemma effectively. By aligning policies with environmental goals and leveraging social movements, Indonesia can drive significant change towards sustainable waste management practices.

Fighting plastic pollution with a circular economy roadmap and strategy: Addressed to the United Nations Environment Programme

Plastic pollution poses a significant challenge to the environment, biodiversity, and human health. Each year, the world produces 300 million tons of plastic waste, equivalent to the weight of the planet's entire human population. Only 9% of plastic products worldwide are recycled due to a pervasive throw-away culture and inefficient policies for managing single-use plastic. Over time, plastics fragment into smaller pieces, distributed across ecosystems by wind and rainfall. Marine and terrestrial wildlife accidentally ingest these smaller plastics, leading to a build-up of toxins in tissues. These toxins are transferred to other species, including humans, through the food chain. This document proposes two policy options to address this issue: (a) replacing conventional plastics with more environmentally friendly alternatives or (b) transitioning to a circular economy focused on reducing, reusing, repairing, and recycling. We urge the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to pursue the latter by leading the development and implementation of a comprehensive global policy agenda for the appropriate and effective management of plastics. This would include the development of financial, environmental, and social estimators to quantify, manage, and reduce plastic waste. A UNEP-led global plastic policy agenda has the potential to standardize and regulate plastic production, consumption, and waste management and ultimately reduce the negative impact of plastics on ecosystems and human health.

Additive manufacturing for sustainability, circularity and zero-waste: 3DP products from waste plastic bottles

Polymers and their composites are now widely used in several industrial sectors, owing to their flexibility in developing customized products. The significant surge in plastic usage has led to a severe challenge in managing end-of-life plastic waste. Millions of tons of plastic waste produced annually mainly end up in landfills, leaking into the environment and posing severe threats to ecosystems. Innovative solutions to reuse/recycle/repurpose plastic waste are desired to address these global challenges. Therefore, in this study, a sustainable route to converting plastic waste into additive manufacturing (AM) feedstock is presented, where waste plastic bottles (mainly Polyethylene Terephthalate, PET) are recycled using an in-house 3D-printed filament extrusion system to produce filaments for fused filament fabrication (FFF) process. In addition to the recycled PET (rPET), virgin carbon fiber reinforced polyamide-6 (PA6-CF) polymer composites were also used to produce hybrid feedstock filaments. The rPET and rPET/PA6-CF composite filaments were extruded using an in-house filament extruder setup. The produced rPET-based filaments were characterized for their chemical and thermal properties. Subsequently, mechanical characterization was performed on 3D-printed specimens. The mechanical analysis revealed better tensile strength for rPET/PA6-CF than rPET; however, the rPET demonstrated better failure strain and young modulus, demonstrating their potential as viable materials for industrial and consumer applications. The outcomes of this study revealed promising results to promote sustainable production and consumption, complementing the circular economy practices with a straightforward production route to convert plastic waste into AM feedstock.

Experimental Study of Manufacturing of Precast Paver Blocks from Local Municipal Solid Waste

The project aims to revolutionize paving block production by utilizing plastic waste instead of cement, potentially reducing costs compared to traditional concrete blocks. In India, where millions of tons of plastic waste are generated annually, finding ways to repurpose this waste into paving blocks could significantly decrease environmental plastic pollution. Our experimentation involved mixing plastic waste with quarry dust, coarse aggregate, and other materials to create the paving blocks. Through testing and analysis, we assessed the effectiveness of these blocks. Ultimately, our goal is to offer a practical solution to both mitigate plastic waste and make paving blocks more economically accessible. Plastic waste poses significant environmental challenges due to its non-biodegradable nature, causing pollution and harm to ecosystems. Despite efforts in plastic recycling, much of it still ends up in landfills or incinerators due to quality concerns with recycled materials. Similarly, construction and demolition waste (C&D Waste) contribute to landfill overflow, but it also holds potential for manufacturing precast paver blocks. It can even replace a portion of aggregates in concrete without compromising its strength. By exploring these avenues, we strive to address both plastic and construction waste issues while offering sustainable solutions in paving block production