Date of Award

2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics

Department

Mechanical, Industrial and Systems Engineering

First Advisor

Arun Shukla

Second Advisor

Carl-Ernst Rousseau

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to design functional 3D printed furniture made from plastic waste for developing countries while attempting to solve the challenges of implementing a circular economy in those areas. The methodology employed a comprehensive literature review to identify sustainability requirements and gaps in previous research. Building upon the findings, a guide to sustainability in developing countries was developed to provide a framework for the design processes. The guide served as a reference throughout the material sourcing to the manufacturing stages, ensuring adherence to circular economy principles. The research emphasized the importance of designing for circularity by utilizing modular components that can be easily disassembled, repaired, or repurposed. The simulated and experimental analyses conducted on individual parts and assemblies helped ensure the performance and durability of the furniture, aligning with circular economy principles of extending product lifecycles. The results demonstrate that the modular furniture design enables user customization and may offer significant value by promoting local circulation and trade. By considering the entire product lifecycle, the research aimed to promote a more sustainable and resource-efficient approach to furniture design and manufacture in developing countries.

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.

Available for download on Monday, January 19, 2026

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