Exploring the potential of ocean plastic - 3D printing

Tao, Xingyu

Abstract

One of the biggest environmental problems facing this planet today is plastic pollution in the marine environment. This research explored the possibilities of 3D printing ocean plastic in an attempt to alleviate this worldwide problem. From understanding the need for addressing ocean plastic challenge by reviewing the previous literature, the author found complex meanings in ecological, economic and political agendas of ocean plastic. It is widely agreed that human and human activities are the sources and solutions of the ocean plastic threat. No longer a new technology out of reach, 3D printing is widely used in many industries and even in the home settings. This study raised the possibility of 3d printing as the connection between ocean plastic and humans and the potential solution to the problem. The author argued that the implementation of 3D printing ocean plastic would not only be sustainable but also educational. The laboratory experimentation with recycling ocean plastic includes mainly Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), collected on the beaches in Scotland. Through shredding, extruding and 3D printing, ocean plastic had been redeLned as new sustainable material. The research employed the recycled Llaments on a 3D printer and 3D printing pen and compared the performances between traditional 3D printing materials and ocean plastic Llaments.

Citation

Tao, X. (2021, October). Exploring the potential of ocean plastic - 3D printing. Presented at International Conference on Sustainable Technology and Development, Shenzhen, China

• Presentation Conference Type: Speech
• Conference Name: International Conference on Sustainable Technology and Development
• Conference Location: Shenzhen, China
• Start Date: Oct 31, 2021
• End Date: Nov 2, 2020
• Deposit Date: Sep 29, 2022
• Public URL: http://researchrepository.napier.ac.uk/Output/2924845