Global Recycling Day: What's new in recycling technology

Recycling is an important way to help the Earth by preserving finite resources and cutting down on waste.  Did you know that finding new and better ways to recycle is something that many engineers around the world focus on?  Here are some of the latest innovations in recycling technology.

1. Smart Bins
A smart recycling bin is a new kind of waste bin, fitted with sensors, connectivity features, and data analytic capabilities.  Basically, all of these technologies do the work of separating waste into proper receptacles to make sorting recycling more efficient.
2. Artificial Intelligence
Recycling facilities suffer from a shortage of workers and with the rising cost of recycling.  Robots and special optical cameras are being developed to sort through recycling as it is moved down a conveyor belt, and separate items that cannot be recycled.
3. 3D Printing
3D printing uses a lot of materials, but it's estimated that right now, only 10% of those materials are recycled.  There are recyclable materials that can be used in 3D printing, and scientists are working on making it more sustainable.  Some projections show that up to 40-60% of 3D printed items can be recycled.
4. Pyrolisis
Pyrolisis is the leading technology involved in advanced plastic recycling.  How it works is that plastics are superheated to temperatures of 500° C in the absence of oxygen.  The plastic waste is vaporized in the pyrolysis reactor and then condenses to produce pyrolysis oil (as well as some other byproducts.)  Essentially, it produces far less waste than less advanced recycling methods and generates reusable products.
5. Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is being used to create materials that are stronger and more durable, which also makes them more recyclable!

What do you think will be the next innovation that helps cut down on waste?

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