33 (+1)R (+1)R conceptconceptIn solving plastic waste disposal problem
by Lee Jo May Universiti Sains Malaysia
Sept 20, 2010
Discuss problems derived from irresponsible plastic waste disposal
Explain and highlight the contribution of 3(+1)R concept in plastic waste management
Focus on development of (+1)R – Introduction to biodegradable plastic
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OvervieOvervieww
1. Plastics low biodegradability
2. Limited landfills
3. Expanding population and industrialisation
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PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC PLASTIC
WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE WASTE
PLASTIC EARTH
3 (+1 ) R Concept
Redevelop
3 R (+1) R
Reduce
Reuse
Recycle
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2 reasons
3R insufficient
Introduce biodegradable
plastic
Non-degradable Degradable
‘Biodegradable’ material definition :
‘a material capable of undergoing decomposition into carbon dioxide, water, methane, or biomass resulted from the enzymatic action of microorganisms, which can be measured by standardized tests, in a specified period of time reflecting available disposal condition. ’
-ASTM-
Redevelop
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Eg. :
Cellulose
Eg. :
Polyesters
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Life cycle of ‘GREEN’ biodegradable plastic material
NATURALRESOURCE
S
HARVEST
BIODEGRADABLE POLYMER
CARBON DIOXIDE & WATER
(CO2 + H2O+C residue)
DISPOSABLE
PRODUCT
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……BIODEGRADATION……
Increasing Time
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Conventional vs Biodegradable
Composition Conventional plastics
Biodegradable plastics
Example Polyethylene, polypropylene
Starch, Cellulose, polyesters
Biodegradability Bad Excellent
Price Commonly cheap Mostly expensive
Application Wide variety Limited applications
Raw materials Unrenewable Renewable
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Conclusions
3R is insufficient to overcome problems of plastic waste accumulation.
3R & (+1)R [redeveloping plastic materials] should coexist.
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