“We introduce the circular-economy component both in production systems and in the reduction of waste generation”
Current production and consumption patterns are unsustainable to maintain economic prosperity and the well-being of future generations.
A paradigm shift in production systems and consumption patterns in society is needed. Circular Economy is the driving force behind the transition towards sustainable production and consumption models for our society and our planet.
TECNALIA took part in the Zirkularrak-Circulares exhibition organised by IHOBE, which revolves around circular-economy products manufactured in the Basque Country. The free and itinerant exhibition is open to the public to offer an insight into the wide variety of products. Eco-design methodologies with a life-cycle approach have been applied in their manufacture, which have substantially reduced their environmental impact.
Products and circularity
We have presented several products in whose development we introduce the circularity component; both in the production systems, which optimise the use of raw materials, materials, products/services, and energy, while reducing waste generation.
- Millichannel reactor achieved a higher energy and matter transfer, which increased the productivity and efficiency of the chemical process, while saving materials and space. It achieves a higher yield (10-20%) than conventional reactors and zero-waste in production by the 3D printing manufacturing method, making 100% use of the material. It is also 100% reusable once its life-cycle is over.
- Portable lighting system: A plastic part with directly printed and embedded lighting for portable lighting systems for micro-mobility vehicles, scooters, etc. that are lightweight and have miniaturised electronics. It minimises the consumption of inks and consumables due to the printing technique used, and reduces the amount of plastic required to integrate the lighting function into the part by 80%.
- SICLA aerogel : A light-weight thermal insulation material with high thermal resistance. It also has high fire performance. It uses lower thicknesses than traditional insulation materials and 100% of the raw material proceeds from recycled materials.
- Circular composite: Continuous fibre-reinforced piece in which materials of petrochemical origin are replaced by bio-based materials, decreasing weight compared to metal components by up to 80% and extending their life-cycle. Manufacturing techniques have been used to reduce energy consumption by 30%.
Zirkularrak-Circulars
These products and many more can be seen in the travelling exhibition Zirkularrak-Circulares.
