Could paper be the answer to 3D printing that is more sustainable?
There are many projects already that use additive manufacturing to create a more sustainable, and more environmentally-friendly existence. A research group at the Technical University of Hamburg, TUHH, is now led by Prof. Dr. Ing. Claus Emmelmann is now trying to answer the question, “What egg cartons, paper and sustainable 3D printing share in common?” The answer is found in their project, called “Green 3D Printing,” which focuses on the production of more sustainable prototypes and models.
3D printing uses plastics for the fabrication of prototypes as well as models. It is important to note that not all materials used in 3D printing are sustainable. They are often disposed off after they have been used as prototypes. Considering that plastic waste is a growing problem worldwide, with 85% of the 40 million tons of municipal plastic waste generated in the U.S, going to landfill sites, the researchers at TUHH chose a more resource-conserving and environmentally friendly alternative with paper fiber materials.
Specifically the “Green 3D Printing” project is targeting printing with paper fiber materials. This papier-mâché-like material can be produced from egg cartons. It is being tested to see if it can be used in the future as a 3D printing material. The project, which is being funded with money from the “Calls for Transfer” program of the Science Authority, a total sum of €26,300, focuses specifically on sustainability.
First prints were already made with paper (photo credit: BWFGB).
From Papier-Mâché to Finished 3D Printing Material
Researchers at the Technical University of Hamburg have developed a method to make paper material from egg cartons. This includes illustrative models and prototypes. The team is currently determining the best material mixture to use in a 3D printer. These additively manufactured prototypes could be recycled as organic waste if a biological adhesive was added. TUHH research does not only focus on the production industrial prototypes but also for end-use components and the production customized packaging that could potentially be used for shipping.
TUHH researchers are delighted about this project as Prof. Dr. Andreas Timm -Giel (President of the TUHH) affirms: “We are pleased that we are once again able to support a number of innovative projects with the “Calls for Transfer” program that we initiated; especially about the TU project “Green 3D Printing” of the TU Hamburg. This project is a shining example of how engineering solutions can drastically reduce our dependence on resources and help us move towards a more sustainable future. This project is testing the use of paper fiber composites to 3D print. This could be a viable alternative to plastic-based manufacturing of prototypes or illustrative models. The goal of the project is now to develop a prototype system to evaluate its technical and economic suitability.”
The Institute for Laser and Plant Systems Technology, Technical University of Hamburg, has received awards for its research in 3D printers in the past. This includes the Innovation Award of the German Economy 2014 for the research on industrial metal 3D printed parts and the Future Prize of the Federal President 2015 for the work. Work is underway on the patent application for the current project regarding the production of 3D printed material.
What do you think about 3D printing on paper? Let us know in a comment below or on our Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter pages! Don’t forget to sign up for our free weekly Newsletter here, the latest 3D printing news straight to your inbox! You can also find all our videos on our YouTube channel.