Distributed Recycling and Manufacturing

Distributed Recycling and Manufacturing (DRAM) is a process that integrates recycling and manufacturing at a local level, using advanced technologies to convert plastic waste into valuable products.

DRAM leverages technologies like 3D printing to recycle various types of plastic waste into new products. This approach reduces waste, supports the circular economy, and decreases the environmental impact associated with traditional manufacturing processes.

Key technologies in DRAM include recyclebots and 3D printers capable of processing a wide array of thermopolymers and plastics. These devices allow for the direct conversion of plastic waste into usable products.

DRAM offers significant cost savings and environmental benefits by promoting local production from recycled materials. It encourages a culture of "prosumers" who produce what they need from waste materials, reducing the need for new plastic production and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with product manufacturing and distribution.

The open-source movement plays a crucial role in DRAM by providing access to designs and technologies that facilitate distributed recycling and manufacturing. This not only fosters innovation but also supports education and skill development in the field of sustainable manufacturing.

1. Pearce, J. (2021, September 30). DRAM It! https://www.thechemicalengineer.com/features/dram-it/
2. Little, H. A., Tanikella, N. G., J. Reich, M., Fiedler, M. J., Snabes, S. L., & Pearce, J. M. (2020). Towards Distributed Recycling with Additive Manufacturing of PET Flake Feedstocks. Materials, 13(19), Article 19. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13194273

• Distributed manufacturing
• Distributed manufacturing with 3-D printing: a case study of recreational vehicle solar photovoltaic mounting systems
• Distributed manufacturing of after market flexible floating photovoltaic modules
• Distributed Manufacturing of Flexible Products- Technical Feasibility and Economic Viability
• Distributed Manufacturing of an Open-Source Tourniquet Testing System
• Distributed recycling of post-consumer plastic waste in rural areas
• Tightening the loop on the circular economy: Coupled distributed recycling and manufacturing with recyclebot and RepRap 3-D printing
• Technical pathways for distributed recycling of polymer composites for distributed manufacturing: Windshield wiper blades
• Development and feasibility of applications for the RepRap 3-D printer
• Open Source 3-D Filament Diameter Sensor for Recycling, Winding and Additive Manufacturing Machines
• Multi-material distributed recycling via material extrusion: recycled high density polyethylene and poly (ethylene terephthalate) mixture
• Environmental impacts of distributed manufacturing from 3-D printing of polymer components and products