Internship Title: Materials for Sustainable Plastics and the Environment
Department: Materials Science and Engineering
Mentor Name: Lilian Davila
The project aims to investigate the usefulness of plarn (yarn made of recycled plastic bags) for engineering applications by modeling composition-properties and life-cycle assessment (LCA). Using independent studies, eco-audit data, and design software, we can evaluate how properties of plarn change as a function of size and analyze different traits including price, energy, and CO2 footprint during manufacturing. Relevant properties together with LCA data of plarn material are pivotal in determining its potential and alternatives in a systematic approach to better select and design products. This research can help decrease pollution in the environment.
