Analysis of the Recovery Process of the Calcine Contained in Damaged Windshields under the Principles of the Circular Economy

Abstract

Objective: This work analyzes the process of recovering calcine by delamination of damaged windshields to separate the glass from a polymeric material called polyvinyl butyral (PVB) at a recycling company based on the principles of the circular economy. Material and Methods: Three tools focused on the circular economy are used in this study: the material circularity indicator, the circular economy toolkit, and life cycle analysis. Results and Discussion: By applying the principles of the circular economy, a high linear value was obtained for the calcine recovery and the PVB disposal because byproducts are not currently recycled or reused. Based on the life cycle analysis, the current process for delamination of windshields has several environmental impacts on carbon and water footprint. Conclusions: Using the principle of industrial symbiosis, the PVB may be reused in other industries so that the circularity index would be enhanced. The environmental impacts on carbon and water footprint could be solved by retrofitting the process and installing a photovoltaic system. In addition, the inversion would be recovered in 3 years. Circular Economy; Life Cycle Analysis; Material Circularity Indicator; Circular Economy Toolkit.