This phase of the project includes identifying the industrial products to be used as test cases, scouting for materials suitable for Additive Manufacturing, and the technical characteristics analysis of these materials to validate their actual usability.
The identified components are designed to improve their sustainability and circular economy process. Then, tests on the technical and mechanical performance of the produced components are conducted, leading to the optimization of the design methodology.
Each test case is analyzed by applying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) integrated with Circularity analysis. Specifically, products obtained through Additive Manufacturing are compared with those made using traditional technology to identify the strengths and weaknesses of Additive Manufacturing.
Based on the LCA models, the identified Emission Factors, and a preliminary evaluation of business needs, a user-friendly software tool is developed. This tool, which does not require specialized LCA expertise, will quantify the environmental footprint of a product obtained through Additive Manufacturing.
The dissemination plan includes a series of activities aimed at promoting and disseminating the project's results, in particular: organizing a seminar, setting up a demonstration corner, creating a website and other marketing-oriented materials, and participating in trade fairs and industry events.