Plastic pollution is a critical environmental issue characterized by the accumulation of plastic objects and particles in the Earth’s environment, adversely affecting humans, wildlife, and their habitats. The problem has escalated since the invention of synthetic plastics, which introduced durable materials resistant to natural degradation processes. Key factors in the design of new biodegradable products are the selection of biodegradable materials, as well as optimising the geometrical design. Topological optimisation methodology in computer aided design (CAD) having in mind the critic parameters of the product, such as material content and superficial area, is becoming more and more important in geometric design. Decreasing the material content reduces environmental impacts as can be demonstrated by means of the Life Cycle Assessment methodology and increasing surface area exposed to the environment speeds up the biodegradation processes, reducing this way the presence of plastic product in the environment. Some simple calculations have been made with an ear cleaning tube and the results show that significant material reduction can be achieved, contributing to the product’s sustainability and efficiency, while increasing surface area, thus improving its functionality and biodegradation potential. The effect in the biodegradation will be assessed in ongoing research. This approach provides a feasible option for the eco-design of more sustainable and circular products.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Topological Optimisation of Biodegradable Plastic Products for Material Reduction and Surface Area Increase

  • Maider Iturrondobeitia,
  • Jose Camilo Suarez,
  • Hugo Afonso,
  • Julen Ibarretxe,
  • Xabier Amezua,
  • Rikardo Minguez

摘要

Plastic pollution is a critical environmental issue characterized by the accumulation of plastic objects and particles in the Earth’s environment, adversely affecting humans, wildlife, and their habitats. The problem has escalated since the invention of synthetic plastics, which introduced durable materials resistant to natural degradation processes. Key factors in the design of new biodegradable products are the selection of biodegradable materials, as well as optimising the geometrical design. Topological optimisation methodology in computer aided design (CAD) having in mind the critic parameters of the product, such as material content and superficial area, is becoming more and more important in geometric design. Decreasing the material content reduces environmental impacts as can be demonstrated by means of the Life Cycle Assessment methodology and increasing surface area exposed to the environment speeds up the biodegradation processes, reducing this way the presence of plastic product in the environment. Some simple calculations have been made with an ear cleaning tube and the results show that significant material reduction can be achieved, contributing to the product’s sustainability and efficiency, while increasing surface area, thus improving its functionality and biodegradation potential. The effect in the biodegradation will be assessed in ongoing research. This approach provides a feasible option for the eco-design of more sustainable and circular products.