Implementation of circular economy in the 3D printing industry through the recycling of single-use plastics

Abstract

The popularization of 3D printing and its growth as an industry translate into an increase in the consumption and production of polymeric materials. The use of polymeric materials (most of which are non-biodegradable petroleum-derivatives) has become an increasing source of environmental concern, which could be worsened by waste from the 3D printing industry if this continues using a linear economic model. However, the creation of filament recycling projects driven by D.I.Y. culture inherent in the 3D printing community, and the decentralization of production and recycling processes that come with it, present a unique opportunity for the implementation of a circular economic model that reincorporates both waste from the 3D printing industry and single/use plastics produced by other industries into the productive cycle, contributing to the sustainability of polymeric materials.