Systems analysis for PET and olefin polymers in a circular economy

Authors

David Shonnard, Michigan Technological University
Emily Tipaldo, American Chemistry Council
Vicki Thompson, Idaho National Laboratory
Joshua Pearce, Michigan Technological UniversityFollow
Gerard Caneba, Michigan Technological University
Robert Handler, Michigan Technological University

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

1-1-2019

Volume

80

Journal

Procedia CIRP

First Page

602

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1016/j.procir.2019.01.072

Last Page

606

Abstract

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET #1) and polyolefin plastics such polyethylene (HDPE #2, LDPE #4) and polypropylene (PP #5) are major products from the chemical industry, and they comprise a significant fraction of municipal solid waste that ends up in landfills or as litter and marine debris. The reuse of these polymeric materials can be optimized through systems analysis with a view on materials flow analysis, techno-economics, environmental life cycle assessment, and consequential societal impacts. This contribution will present the overall research approach for this exploratory project within the DOE- and industry-funded REMADE Institute and end with a proposed systems analysis framework.