3-CYCLE—A modular process chain for recycling of plastic waste with filament-based 3D printing for learning factories

Abstract

Closed-loop manufacturing enables the integration of waste material and end-of-life products into the manufacturing processes of new products. As additive manufacturing in the form of filament-based 3D printing is becoming more frequently used, this process can be utilized to create a closed-loop process chain for the recycling of plastic waste material. Within the 3-CYLCE project, a modular process chain was developed for treating end-of-life products and extruding printable filament out of shredded waste material. This filament can then be utilized to create new products with 3D printers substituting virgin material. The implementation of the process chain in learning environments is discussed and the possible learning content presented.