3D printing with solar power and discarded plastics

Deakin University is developing technology capable of 3D printing plumbing and sanitation supplies using discarded plastics. Not only will the printer be able to use plastic rubbish found nearby, it will also run off a solar-powered battery.

The 3D printer prototype is being developed by a team led by Dr Mazher Mohammed, who noted, “This kind of 3D technology can be used to rapidly replace broken plastic seals, pipes and other devices essential for water supply or sanitation. This is critical as many disaster zones and developing areas do not have reliable access to power.”

The printers will be trialled by Plan International Australia in the Solomon Islands later this year, whose manager for water, sanitation and hygiene, Tom Rankin, said the potential applications of the technology are “limitless”.

“This technology really lends itself to developing countries, where plastic waste has exceeded the capacity of governments to manage it,” Rankin said.

“In the streets of Honiara, there is plastic literally everywhere. It clogs up the drains and flows out into the sea, killing marine life. Our aim is to turn this plastic into useful parts.

“If we can prove the concept and get the technology working well, it can be used across a raft of different fields — not just water and sanitation.

“The potential for this is amazing.”

Deakin University is using crowdfunding to help meet the costs of the printer’s first prototypes, with over $19,000 having been raised towards the $30,000 target. To support the project, visit https://startsomegood.com/3d-wash-3d-printing-for-health-and-enterprise.