Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Anton Berwald, Gergana Dimitrova, Thijs Feenstra, Joop Onnekink, Harm Peters, Gianni Vyncke, Kim Ragaert
Summary: The modern devices using increasingly diverse and complex plastics may negatively impact recyclability, particularly for WEEE plastics recycling. Design 'for' and 'from' recycling strategies are crucial in circular economy, leading to comprehensive Design for Circularity guidelines with five categories developed in collaboration with industry leaders. These guidelines can assist decision-makers at different levels in the EEE industry.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Tiffany Ramos, Thomas Budde Christensen, Nikoline Oturai, Kristian Syberg
Summary: Plastic single-use devices are commonly used in healthcare facilities for their convenience and sterility. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the specific types and amounts of plastic products generated by hospitals, especially operating theatres. This study addresses this knowledge gap by quantifying the plastic fractions generated and making recommendations to reduce them. The results suggest that the design of medical products and packaging should consider the end-of-life fate of the product, and responsibilities should also be shared by producers and manufacturers.
JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION
(2023)
Review
Polymer Science
Carl G. Schirmeister, Rolf Muelhaupt
Summary: Plastics are widely used in everyday life and have become crucial for sustainable development. However, the increasing demand for plastics has led to a surge in plastic debris in the environment. Transitioning to a circular plastic economy through reuse, recycling, and carbon capture is vital for the future. Biodegradation and molecular recycling offer potential solutions to tackle plastic waste.
MACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Leah Chibwe, Amila O. De Silva, Christine Spencer, Camilla F. Teixera, Mary Williamson, Xiaowa Wang, Derek C. G. Muir
Summary: Increased demand for recycling plastic has raised concerns about the potential introduction of hazardous chemicals. A comprehensive screening of 21 plastic flake and pellet samples from Canadian recycling companies revealed the high detection frequencies and concentrations of organophosphorus ester flame retardants and plasticizers, suggesting their incorporation into recycled goods. Although individual concentrations met European Union threshold limits for recycled granules and waste plastic flakes, further research is needed to determine their toxicological thresholds. Our study emphasizes the importance of additional screening to fully understand the presence of potentially hazardous chemicals in goods made from recycled plastics.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Niklas Netsch, Martin Simons, Alexander Feil, Hans Leibold, Frank Richter, Julia Slama, Savina Padumane Yogish, Kathrin Greiff, Dieter Stapf
Summary: The mechanical and thermochemical recycling of external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) based on expanded polystyrene (EPS) is investigated in this study to evaluate circular economy opportunities. Through a combined recycling process, high carbon recycling rates can be achieved by separating inorganic compounds and generating plastic-rich pre-concentrate. The study also reveals technology limitations and opportunities for further development and optimization.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Kim Ragaert, Cloe Ragot, Kevin M. Van Geem, Sascha Kersten, Yoni Shiran, Steven De Meester
Summary: The increasing activities in plastics recycling have resulted in a proliferation of terminology, causing confusion and uncertainty. This paper aims to provide clarity on the different pathways, categorizations, and definitions of plastic recycling to enhance understanding and enable better decision-making.
CURRENT OPINION IN GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Sebastian Kahlert, Catharina R. Bening
Summary: Scientific analysis and media coverage have negatively impacted the reputation of plastic due to rampant pollution, leading to discussions about a plastic crisis. This paper examines the flow of PET from production to recycling in the EU and highlights the need for substantial investments and regulatory framework to achieve sustainable use of PET.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Asma Sikander, Steven Kelly, Kerstin Kuchta, Anika Sievers, Thomas Willner, Andrew S. Hursthouse
Summary: We propose a novel integrated model for recovering tantalum from tantalum-rich waste by combining hydro-metallurgical and bio-metallurgical processes. Leaching experiments with heterotrophs showed high efficiency in leaching manganese, but no tantalum was detected. An unidentified species was able to mobilize 16% tantalum in non-sterile tantalum capacitor scrap, but efforts to identify it failed. The proposed model involves microbial leaching with Penicillium simplicissimum to solubilize manganese, followed by a second leach with 4 M HNO3 to dissolve silver and impurities, resulting in concentrated pure tantalum.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2023)
Editorial Material
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Arthur J. Ragauskas, George W. Huber, Jia Wang, Adam Guss, Hugh M. O'Neill, Carol Sze Ki Lin, Yanqin Wang, Frederik R. Wurm, Xianzhi Meng
Summary: The Editorial highlights the urgent efforts being made by chemists to address challenges related to the fate of plastics at the end of their useful lives and the valorization of plastic waste.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Vincenzo Santucci, Silvia Fiore
Summary: This study investigated the performance of waste polyurethane foam (PUF) derived from end-of-life refrigerators as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. The results showed that the adsorption capacity of waste PUF was limited for methylene blue and mercury, and much lower for phenol, with removal efficiency lower than that of commercial activated carbon (AC). The preliminary results suggest that additional pre-treatments are needed to overcome the adsorption limits of waste PUF for better wastewater treatment.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jaime A. Gomez Duran, Zeferino Gamino Arroyo, Fernando Israel Gomez Castro, Patricia Quintana Owen, Lorena Eugenia Sanchez Cadena, Monica V. Ayala Gomez
Summary: This study investigated the impact of various factors on the recovery of copper, lead, and iron from electronic waste through acid leaching. It was found that sub-millimetric particles showed better extraction rates for copper and iron, while the opposite was true for lead. The presence of hydrogen peroxide enhanced the extraction efficiency but also caused precipitation of iron and lead, making it inefficient for metal recovery. Calcium salts produced gypsum, which reduced the extraction yield of copper particles below 250 μm.
Article
Polymer Science
Muhammad Kashif Anwar, Syyed Adnan Raheel Shah, Hatem Alhazmi
Summary: Environmental issues from a linear economy strategy can be addressed by utilizing waste as a resource or shifting towards a circular economy. The use of plastic waste as a replacement for bitumen in road construction has shown improved stability over time, meeting standard criteria with plastic contents up to 20%. This strategy provides economic and social benefits while effectively reusing plastic waste for sustainable road pavements.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Ying Liu, Zhiyuan Zheng, Lu Zhao, Zhen Wang
Summary: The recycling of plastic bottles is crucial for reducing the reliance on fossil fuels and safeguarding the environment. This study introduces an indicator based on the joint entropy method to assess the quality of post-consumer plastic bottles (PCPBs) in the collection stage. The research conducted in Beijing, China, revealed a decrease in the quality of PCPBs throughout the collection system, with residential area type identified as a key factor influencing quality at collection sites.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2021)
Review
Polymer Science
Zoe O. G. Schyns, Michael P. Shaver
Summary: The current global plastics economy is linear, but transitioning to a circular economy is crucial for reducing environmental impacts through degradation, reuse, and recycling. Mechanical recycling plays a key role in a sustainable plastic economy, but challenges such as high costs, mechanical property degradation, and inconsistent product quality need to be addressed.
MACROMOLECULAR RAPID COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Review
Engineering, Chemical
Jovan Tan, Shuyue Jia, Seeram Ramakrishna
Summary: Achieving plastic circularity is crucial, but only 9% of global plastic waste is recycled, indicating the need for substantial progress. This article critically assesses the current state, gaps, and future outlook of circular plastic pathways and processes, contributing to the acceleration of plastic circularity. Employing qualitative methods, it provides new insights that empower scholars and practitioners to develop effective strategies for shaping the future of plastic circularity. The article concludes that current circularity pathways for plastics are not economically viable, hindering scalability and adoption, and highlights the importance of product design and collection systems in achieving plastic circularity.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Brittany Laing, David Seveno, Jozefien De Keyzer, Albert Van Bael
Summary: The study investigates the reactive wetting phenomenon between EPDM and PE, demonstrating the impact of vulcanizing peroxide on wetting behavior and adhesion strength at the interface. The co-vulcanization reaction between EPDM and PE was found to restrict wetting, while higher peroxide concentrations in EPDM led to stronger chemical bonding mechanisms and enhanced adhesion strength at the interface.
COLLOID AND INTERFACE SCIENCE COMMUNICATIONS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Wouter Sterkens, Dillam Diaz-Romero, Toon Goedeme, Wim Dewulf, Jef R. Peeters
Summary: This research explores the feasibility of using deep learning object detection on X-ray images of WEEE to predict the presence, location, and type of batteries inside electronic devices, facilitating the development of innovative techniques for battery extraction and sorting. Analysis of X-ray images from 532 electronic devices demonstrates the potential for automated battery extraction and classification using X-ray images.
RESOURCES CONSERVATION AND RECYCLING
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Mirko Sinico, Suraj Dinkar Jadhav, Ann Witvrouw, Kim Vanmeensel, Wim Dewulf
Summary: This study compares dense specimens produced from virgin and surface-modified CuCr1 powder, as well as characterizes a third sample with abnormal porosity content. High-resolution micro-CT scans reveal that the virgin CuCr1 sample has keyhole pores and pit cavities, while the surface-modified sample mainly contains small and spherical equi-distributed metallurgical defects. The presence of W contamination in the third specimen leads to lack-of-fusion pores in subsequent LPBF layers. The different porosity types are connected to the LPBF melting mode, material properties, and potential contaminants.
Article
Computer Science, Hardware & Architecture
Yannick De Bock, Andres Auquilla, Ellen Bracquene, Ann Nowe, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: The real life experiment on smart heating system showed significant energy savings potential and minimal impact on user comfort. Through autonomous control, substantial energy savings and environmental impact reduction were achieved.
SUSTAINABLE COMPUTING-INFORMATICS & SYSTEMS
(2021)
Reprint
Engineering, Manufacturing
Mart Willocx, Amir Ayali, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: Biologicalisation involves integrating biological knowledge into manufacturing processes. In this study, three different methods were used to find bio-inspiration, with the natural language processing approach showing promise in retrieving relevant biological strategies but facing difficulties in extracting working principles accurately and efficiently.
CIRP JOURNAL OF MANUFACTURING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Reprint
Engineering, Manufacturing
F. van Houten, R. Wertheim, A. Ayali, E. Poverenov, G. Mechraz, U. Eckert, H. Rentzsch, I Dani, M. Willocx, J. R. Duflou
Summary: This paper investigates the use of bio-inspiration and bio-integration in design methodologies, combined with the development of ICT and digitalization options, showing the benefits of applying biological principles and materials along with new technologies in the manufacturing industry.
CIRP JOURNAL OF MANUFACTURING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Orthopedics
Sanne Vancleef, Mariska Wesseling, Joost R. Duflou, Stefaan Nijs, Ilse Jonkers, Jos Vander Sloten
Summary: The study aimed to design a patient-specific clavicle fracture fixation plate that includes geometrical optimization and stiffness determination. Its biomechanical performance was compared with a commercial plate, showing better geometrical fit and improved fracture reduction of the patient-specific plate.
JOURNAL OF ORTHOPAEDIC RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Simon Van den Eynde, Ellen Bracquene, Dillam Diaz-Romero, Isiah Zaplana, Bart Engelen, Joost R. Duflou, Jef R. Peeters
Summary: The potential emergence of a global aluminium scrap surplus in the next decade is driving investments in new methods and technologies in the aluminium recycling industry. However, uncertainty in the evolution of the global scrap surplus makes it challenging for policymakers and the recycling industry to accurately estimate the economic and environmental benefits of enhanced sorting and recycling methods.
Article
Engineering, Industrial
Alberto Tomas Garcia, Nikita Levichev, Reginald Dewil, Dirk Cattrysse, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: This contribution investigates the optimal arrangement of tool stations and segments in the automatic machine setup system of press brake. Two different heuristics are proposed to solve this complex problem and their performance is compared.
CIRP ANNALS-MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Automation & Control Systems
Nikita Levichev, Alberto Tomas Garcia, Reginald Dewil, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: Heat accumulation during laser flame cutting of thick mild steel plates is a well-known problem that can lead to quality degradation and failure. To address this issue, a virtual sensor is proposed to estimate plate temperature and optimize cutting parameters. Experimental results show improved cut quality and increased productivity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Alexander Boudewijn, Jef R. Peeters, Dirk Cattrysse, Wim Dewulf, Luca Campadello, Alessia Accili, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: Waste Electric and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is a significant and growing waste stream in the European Union. To achieve ambitious recycling targets, it is necessary to develop adequate infrastructure and policies for recycling plastics. However, there is currently a lack of quantitative overview on WEEE plastics, hindering strategic decision-making for policymakers and recyclers. This study proposes a novel method combining experimental results and prior literature to provide quantitative insights into the volume and characteristics of WEEE plastics collected in the European Union. The findings confirm the presence of different plastic types and high concentrations of flame retardants in specific waste streams or components.
Article
Optics
Nikita Levichev, Maria Rosaria Vetrano, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: This paper evaluates and compares the melt flow dynamics and cutting front geometry during laser cutting with static and oscillating beams. It finds a distinctive molten material ejection mechanism during linear beam oscillation and proposes ways to optimize the beam profile during laser cutting.
OPTICS AND LASERS IN ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence
Mart Willocx, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: Current supportive bio-inspired design methods are not scalable and require engineers to adopt a new design process. The study presents a scalable search method called FISh, which allows engineers to start the search using engineering terminology that is automatically converted to a biological query. The method leverages machine translation and language models trained on patents and biological publications to align engineering and biology domains. The search functionality is validated by comparing results with existing bio-inspired designs.
AI EDAM-ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR ENGINEERING DESIGN ANALYSIS AND MANUFACTURING
(2023)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Masoud Kardan, Nikita Levichev, Sylvie Castagne, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: This paper investigates the effect of dynamic beam shaping on fiber laser fusion cutting of thick aluminum plates. The results show that using an elliptical intensity distribution can achieve higher cutting speed and better cutting quality.
JOURNAL OF LASER APPLICATIONS
(2023)
Proceedings Paper
Engineering, Electrical & Electronic
Nikita Levichev, Alberto Tomas Garcia, Joost R. Duflou
Summary: The paper focuses on the visualization of different phenomena involved in laser material processing, particularly emphasizing the importance of melt flow dynamics on cut quality and process performance. The cutting process with a 4 kW Ytterbium fiber laser is visualized using various approaches, and the relationship between them is examined. Melt flow dynamics is also observed in the trim-cut configuration to analyze the cutting front geometry.
HIGH-POWER LASER MATERIALS PROCESSING: APPLICATIONS, DIAGNOSTICS, AND SYSTEMS XI
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaojian Liu, Bei Wang, Yayun Ma, Xiangyang Zhou, Juan Yang, Yuehui He, Jingjing Tang, Fanyun Su, Wan Yang
Summary: This study proposes a combined process of reduction roasting of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid leaching to improve the recovery efficiency of lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries. By utilizing the reducing gas produced from the pyrolysis of herb-medicine residue, the layered structure of the cathode powder is destroyed and converted into Li2CO3, Ni, Co, and MnO. Additionally, selective extraction of lithium is achieved using oxalic acid, and the efficiency and kinetics of lithium extraction are improved under the combined action of herb-medicine residue and oxalic acid.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Muxina Konarova, Nuno Batalha, Gabriel Fraga, Mohamed H. M. Ahmed, Steven Pratt, Bronwyn Laycock
Summary: This study presents a proof of concept for a technology that integrates PET recovery from mixed plastic waste and plastic pyrolysis. By depolymerizing PET into TPA using a low volatility oil as medium, it achieves low-pressure operation and a selective separation and recovery of TPA from the product mix. Full PET conversion and high TPA recovery were achieved, making it an effective solution for processing mixed waste streams and improving the yield and quality of liquid product from thermal pyrolysis compared to untreated feedstock.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Zhenhua Sun, Jing Li, Xuejiang Wang, Siqing Xia, Jianfu Zhao
Summary: This study investigated the influence of in-situ formed MgFe2O4 on the hydrothermal treatment of swine manure. The results showed that the in-situ formation of MgFe2O4 improved the dehydration and decarboxylation of organic components in swine manure, thereby improving its carbonization degree. Furthermore, it enhanced the stabilization of heavy metals and the retention of phosphorus. MgFe2O4 modified hydrochars exhibited remarkable adsorption capacity for Pb(II) and Cu(II) without any leaching of heavy metals.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yijing Jiang, Boyang Leng, Jingxin Xi
Summary: The increased generation of municipal solid waste has had a significant impact on the economy, environment, and public health. The current waste treatment process has limitations. By developing a comprehensive social costing model, this study assesses the impacts of municipal solid waste management throughout its life cycle and provides policymakers with best practices and feasibility information.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Marina Hernandes de Paula e Silva, Ricardo Coser Mergulha, Jose Geraldo Vidal Vieira, Andrea Brasco Pampanelli, Rodrigo Salvador, Diogo Aparecido Lopes Silva
Summary: This study developed and implemented a self-assessment tool to assist companies in decision-making processes for establishing circular flows based on Lean Manufacturing and Circular Economy principles. The tool utilized a maturity model and was applied to nine companies of varying characteristics. The findings revealed that certain companies showed higher maturity in water-waste and chemical-emissions management, with larger enterprises focusing on these strategies. However, many companies lacked sufficient training and employee awareness prior to seeking cleaner alternatives, and comprehensive actions to manage the product lifecycle were lacking. To address these gaps, the tool provided tailored recommendations for each company to improve their processes, products, and value chain.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Gamze Dogdu, Turgay Pekdemir, Sanaz Lakestani, Seyda Karabork, Osman Cavus
Summary: This paper presents data on food waste associated with mini size food packaging services, highlighting the difficulties in emptying the food and consumer wastefulness as the main causes. These findings have significant implications for the sustainability of food and relevant packaging.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Qingxia Li, Xin Kong, Yuxin Chen, Jianan Niu, Jia Jing, Jin Yuan, Yifeng Zhang
Summary: This study investigates how to enhance methane production from food waste after hydrothermal pretreatment. The results demonstrate a significant increase in methane yield when zero-valent iron and magnetite are used together, and high organic loading is favorable for methane production. Microbial diversity analysis further reveals the dominant pathways and metabolic processes involved in methane generation.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
D. H. H. Sim, I. A. W. Tan, L. L. P. Lim, E. T. Lau, B. H. Hameed
Summary: The development of controlled-release fertilizer formulation is important for preventing environmental pollution caused by nutrient leaching and volatilization. This study combined biochar-based fertilizer with encapsulation technology to improve the nutrient release mechanism. Optimal conditions for synthesizing urea-impregnated biochar (UIB) were determined using central composite design, and the release of nitrogen was described by mathematical models. Results showed that encapsulated UIB (EUIB) achieved complete release of nitrogen in water and exhibited improved water retention in sandy-textural soil. Therefore, EUIB derived from peppercorn waste has the potential to be used as a sustainable controlled-release fertilizer for agriculture.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuchuan Wang, Neslihan Akdeniz
Summary: Incorporating biochar into composting systems can increase compost temperatures. This study developed a heat transfer model for a biochar-amended co-composting system and found that biochar increased thermal conductive losses but also enhanced microbial activity, resulting in an overall increase in total heat unit. When biochar was applied on the surface, it mainly functioned as an insulator.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
George Tsalis, Birger Boutrup Jensen, Jessica Aschemann-Witzel
Summary: This paper empirically explores the relationship between retail price promotions and household food waste. The results show that households with a higher proportion of discount food purchases and environmental awareness tend to waste less food, while larger households and those lacking food handling skills tend to waste more food.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Lukas Friederici, Arne Koch, Patrick Martens, Jana Pantzke, Sebastiano Di Bucchianico, Thorsten Streibel, Christopher P. Rueger, Ralf Zimmermann
Summary: The increasing demand for lightweight materials has led to a rise in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) production. However, the properties and compositional range of FRPs pose challenges to recycling strategies. Pyrolysis has emerged as a promising method for separating the fibers from the polymer matrix. This study investigated the pyrolysis process using thermal analysis and high-resolution mass spectrometry, and also assessed the toxicity of the recovered fibers using an in vitro model.
Review
Engineering, Environmental
Devika Kannan, Shakiba Khademolqorani, Nassibeh Janatyan, Somaieh Alavi
Summary: This paper introduces Smart Waste Management (SWM) that applies Industry 4.0 technologies in waste management. A framework called SWM4.0 is developed, which highlights the importance of smart people, smart cities, smart enterprises, and smart factories in achieving successful waste management. The paper also suggests future research directions and managerial implications.