Title: Meghalaya University Researchers Build Portable Plastic Recycler
In a breakthrough innovation, researchers at the University of Science and Technology, Meghalaya (USTM) have designed and built a portable plastic recycler that can transform waste plastic into new products in a remarkably short time. This compact and affordable device, which has been granted a patent, has the potential to revolutionize the way small institutions and communities manage plastic waste.
The portable plastic recycler, which can be taken on the go, can melt plastic waste at a temperature of 70-80°C and reshape it into new items in just 15-20 minutes. This process makes it an ideal solution for small-scale plastic recycling, as it can be easily operated in a variety of settings, from schools and offices to community centers and homes.
According to news sources, the prototype of this innovative device was recently put to the test on Independence Day, with tricolour badges and crafts being created using the recycled plastic. This public demonstration of the portable plastic recycler not only showcased its capabilities but also highlighted its potential to make a tangible impact in the fight against plastic waste.
The issue of plastic waste has become a major concern globally, with an estimated 8 million tons of plastic waste entering the world’s oceans every year. This not only harms marine life but also has serious implications for human health and the environment. In India, the plastic waste problem is particularly acute, with an estimated 15 million tons of plastic waste generated annually.
Against this backdrop, the portable plastic recycler developed by USTM researchers is a game-changer. Not only does it offer a sustainable solution to plastic waste management, but it also provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to take ownership of their plastic waste and turn it into something new and useful.
So, how does the portable plastic recycler work? According to Dr. Rupa Rabha, one of the researchers involved in the project, the device uses a combination of heat and pressure to melt plastic waste into a liquid form. This liquid plastic can then be molded and shaped into new items, such as containers, bags, or even toys.
“One of the unique features of our portable plastic recycler is its ability to operate at a relatively low temperature,” says Dr. Rabha. “This makes it an ideal solution for small-scale plastic recycling, as it can be powered using a simple electric heating coil or even a solar oven. This reduces the device’s carbon footprint and makes it more accessible to communities that may not have access to high-tech infrastructure.”
The portable plastic recycler is also designed to be affordable and compact, making it an ideal solution for small institutions and communities. According to Dr. Rabha, the device can be manufactured at a cost of around ₹50,000 to ₹70,000, making it an affordable solution for schools, offices, and community centers.
The impact of the portable plastic recycler on plastic waste management in India cannot be overstated. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), plastic waste accounts for a significant portion of the total solid waste generated in the country, with an estimated 40-50% of plastic waste going unmanaged or unrecycled. The portable plastic recycler offers a tangible solution to this problem, providing a way for small institutions and communities to manage their plastic waste and reduce their carbon footprint.
While the portable plastic recycler is still in its prototype phase, it has already generated significant interest and excitement among plastic waste management experts and enthusiasts. According to Dr. Rabha, the device has been tested in several pilot projects and has shown promising results.
“We are currently working on refining the design and increasing the device’s efficiency,” says Dr. Rabha. “Once these tests are completed, we plan to scale up production and make the portable plastic recycler available to a wider audience. We believe that this device has the potential to make a significant impact in the fight against plastic waste, and we are committed to making it a reality.”
In conclusion, the portable plastic recycler developed by USTM researchers is an innovative solution that has the potential to transform the way we manage plastic waste. Compact, affordable, and patent-approved, this device offers a sustainable solution to plastic waste management, providing an opportunity for individuals and communities to take ownership of their plastic waste and turn it into something new and useful. As we move forward in our efforts to combat plastic waste, the portable plastic recycler is an exciting development that holds much promise.
Source: https://hubnetwork.in/turning-trash-into-treasure-ustms-portable-plastic-recycler/
