Improving the Health Safety of Plastic Recycling Methods
Major
Physics
Second Major
Computer Science
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Environmental Studies, Physics
Faculty Advisor
Gabriel C. Spalding
Faculty Advisor
Kevin Adair
Location
CNS Atrium
Start Date
4-12-2025 11:15 AM
End Date
4-12-2025 12:15 PM
Abstract
In Haiti and similarly developing countries, many residents make their livelihoods through the burning of plastic for the purpose of repurposing it and selling it. However, this process poses many health risks to those involved, exposing them to numerous toxins released as fumes in the burning process. This research project would focus primarily on the concentrations of chemicals that are released through the melting of high- and low-density polyethylene plastics. Through a connection at the Seattle Burn Design Lab, we have access to designs for carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide sensing electronics that can be used to monitor exhaust fumes of our prototype Fuego del Sol stoves. We will create our own versions of these monitor systems and develop additional sensors to measure amounts of other specific components contained within the fumes. By being able to determine the levels of these harmful chemicals, we aim to improve the efficiency of combustion of harmful components as well as the ventilation systems of the stoves so that they will better protect users from toxins.
Improving the Health Safety of Plastic Recycling Methods
CNS Atrium
In Haiti and similarly developing countries, many residents make their livelihoods through the burning of plastic for the purpose of repurposing it and selling it. However, this process poses many health risks to those involved, exposing them to numerous toxins released as fumes in the burning process. This research project would focus primarily on the concentrations of chemicals that are released through the melting of high- and low-density polyethylene plastics. Through a connection at the Seattle Burn Design Lab, we have access to designs for carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide sensing electronics that can be used to monitor exhaust fumes of our prototype Fuego del Sol stoves. We will create our own versions of these monitor systems and develop additional sensors to measure amounts of other specific components contained within the fumes. By being able to determine the levels of these harmful chemicals, we aim to improve the efficiency of combustion of harmful components as well as the ventilation systems of the stoves so that they will better protect users from toxins.