KEEN | Spring 2018

3D Printing Plastic Recycling Machine

Sustainability icon, disabled. A green leaf.

The use of 3D printers is increasing, and it is estimated that by the end of 2018 around 500,000 printers will be sold. With the increasing use of 3D printers comes another problem: the plastic waste that it produces. Typically, consumers throw away the plastic waste. By keeping the circular economy in mind, a sustainable solution has been made. “Smashtic” is a type of plastic recycling equipment that is ideal for technology studios, offices, and homes with 3D printers where the amount of plastic usage is less. The project goal is to avoid plastic wastes getting into the environment.

Student researcher

Portrait of Castillo, Luis

Luis Castillo Arcay

Engineering (mechanical engineering systems)

Hometown: Mesa, Arizona

Graduation date: Fall 2018