Application of Life Cycle Engineering for the Comparison of Biodegradable Polymers Injection Moulding Performance

摘要

The use of biodegradable and compostable polymers (BDP) has a rising concern derived from its particular characteristics. Currently, various BDPs are combined to improve technical performance, to open up new applications or to reduce costs. In this paper a Life-Cycle-Engineering model is developed to compare the economical, environmental and technical dimensions of performance for 4 different types of BDPs when processed through injection moulding technology. The proposed model allows for comprehensive alternative comparison, supporting informed material selection decisions in a product-design context. The use of a ternary decision space supports materials comparison and the identification of their "best alternative domains".