Mechanical upcycling of single-use face mask waste into high-performance composites: An ecofriendly approach with cost-benefit analysis

Zabihi, Omid; Patrick, Rebecca; Ahmadi, Mojtaba; Forrester, Mike; Huxley, Rachel; Wei, Yaning; Hadigheh, S. Ali; Naebe, Minoo

doi:10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170469

Cited by 8 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 60 publications

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“…Many other scientists and researchers, such as Hod Lipson, Neil Gershenfeld, Terry Wohlers, Elaine Cohen, and Jean-Claude André, have also made significant contributions, advancing various aspects of 3D printing through their work on specific mathematical modelling techniques. Some current applications involve characterizing the shear thinning behavior of inks by quantifying the degree of shear thinning and using mathematical models to predict the window of printer operating parameters within which Overall, each group of topics concerning 3D printing in an ecological context has the potential to contribute to a more sustainable manufacturing industry by reducing material and energy use and carbon emissions [6,[55][56][57]; conserving resources [7,58,59], repairing and upcycling [56,[60][61][62] and reducing waste generation [63][64][65][66]; facilitating the selection of eco-friendly materials [67][68][69][70][71]; and enabling decentralized and customized production processes [72][73][74], thus contributing to holistic assessments of environmental impacts. In the group of publications related to modelling, there is a significant emphasis on understanding printing conditions and the properties of various printed materials.…”

Section: History: Bridging Innovation With Environmental Sustainabilitymentioning

confidence: 99%

Let’s Print an Ecology in 3D (and 4D)

Szechyńska-Hebda,

Hebda,

Doğan-Sağlamtimur

et al. 2024

Materials

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The concept of ecology, historically rooted in the economy of nature, currently needs to evolve to encompass the intricate web of interactions among humans and various organisms in the environment, which are influenced by anthropogenic forces. In this review, the definition of ecology has been adapted to address the dynamic interplay of energy, resources, and information shaping both natural and artificial ecosystems. Previously, 3D (and 4D) printing technologies have been presented as potential tools within this ecological framework, promising a new economy for nature. However, despite the considerable scientific discourse surrounding both ecology and 3D printing, there remains a significant gap in research exploring the interplay between these directions. Therefore, a holistic review of incorporating ecological principles into 3D printing practices is presented, emphasizing environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, and innovation. Furthermore, the ‘unecological’ aspects of 3D printing, disadvantages related to legal aspects, intellectual property, and legislation, as well as societal impacts, are underlined. These presented ideas collectively suggest a roadmap for future research and practice. This review calls for a more comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted impacts of 3D printing and the development of responsible practices aligned with ecological goals.

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Section: History: Bridging Innovation With Environmental Sustainabilitymentioning

confidence: 99%

Let’s Print an Ecology in 3D (and 4D)

Szechyńska-Hebda,

Hebda,

Doğan-Sağlamtimur

et al. 2024

Materials

View full text Add to dashboard Cite

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Synergistic technologies for a circular economy: upcycling waste plastics and biomass

Osman,

Nasr,

Aniagor

et al. 2024

Front. Chem. Sci. Eng.

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The urgent need for sustainable waste management has led to the exploration of upcycling waste plastics and biomass as viable solutions. In 2018, global plastic production reached 359 million tonnes, with an estimated 12000 million tonnes projected to be delivered and disposed of in landfills by 2050. Unfortunately, current waste management practices result in only 19.5% of plastics being recycled, while the rest is either landfilled (55%) or incinerated (25.5%). The improper disposal of plastics contributes to issues such as soil and groundwater contamination, air pollution, and wildlife disturbance. On the other hand, biomass has the potential to deliver around 240 exajoules of energy per year by 2060. However, its current utilization remains relatively small, with only approximately 9% of biomass-derived energy being consumed in Europe in 2017. This review explores various upcycling methods for waste plastics and biomass, including mechanical, chemical, biological, and thermal approaches. It also highlights the applications of upcycled plastics and biomass in sectors such as construction, packaging, energy generation, and chemicals. The environmental and economic benefits of upcycling are emphasized, including the reduction of plastic pollution, preservation of natural resources, carbon footprint reduction, and circular economy advancement.

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