Filamentive, a UK-based brand of 3D printing filament, has launched a recycling take-back scheme for its PLA-based filaments.
PLAis one of the most popular materials for 3D printing because it is easy to print and produces high-quality prints. Whilst 3D printing produces less waste than traditional manufacturing processes, it produces waste nonetheless.
Filamentive estimates up to 33% of 3D prints end up as waste, contributing to an estimated 400,000 kg of plastic waste annually in the UK alone from filament-based 3D printing. According to the firm, 70% of 3D printer operators don’t recycle their PLA waste.
The most common 3D printing technology, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM), works by melting a thermoplastic material and extruding it through a nozzle to create a 3D object. In Filamentive’s case, this material is PLA – which is fully recyclable, but still has very limited recycling rates.
To address this issue, the company will supply its UK-based customers who spend over GBP 500 on its PLA 3D printer filament with a 45-litre recycling box at no extra cost. The box includes a shipping label and can be sent to Filamentive’s recycling partner, 3D Printing Waste (3DPW), when full.
3DPW then either recycles the PLA into feedstock for injection moulding applications, sells it as pellets, or upcycles it into new products.
Whilst the waste 3D printing filament will not at this moment be recycled into the same material, the two partners guarantee that 100% of the PLA filament is diverted from landfill.