| Title |
Strategic network design for recycling of EPS insulation material - insights from a German case study |
| ID_Doc |
23459 |
| Authors |
Schleier, J; Walther, G |
| Title |
Strategic network design for recycling of EPS insulation material - insights from a German case study |
| Year |
2024 |
| Published |
International Journal Of Production Research, 62, 16 |
| DOI |
10.1080/00207543.2024.2302041 |
| Abstract |
The extensive use of external thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS) using expanded polystyrene (EPS) for building insulation in Germany has resulted in accumulating end-of-life EPS-ETICS. To address limited waste management options and enhance EPS circularity, alternative recycling options like pyrolysis or solvent-based recycling need to be implemented. However, efficient recycling requires ex-ante analyses of the corresponding reverse logistics networks, including all necessary pre-treatment and transport processes. This study aims to develop a decision support system to determine optimal EPS-ETICS waste management by minimising the net present value of the corresponding network design. Our mixed-integer linear optimisation model considers decisions on technology, capacity, and location for pre-processing and recycling facilities as well as on material flow allocation. Applied to a German case study, our model finds pyrolysis and solvent-based recycling economically superior to current waste treatment in waste incineration plants. We present an optimal network design combining central pyrolysis with decentral pre-processing. A scenario analysis shows fluctuating styrene and polystyrene prices might favour solvent-based recycling over the optimal choice in pyrolysis, with minor overall cost differences. Further, legal recycling quotas of at least 40% would be necessary to promote solvent-based recycling and enhance EPS circularity beyond what is achievable through pyrolysis. |
| Author Keywords |
Expanded polystyrene; ETICS; chemical recycling; circular economy; reverse logistics; strategic network design |
| Index Keywords |
Index Keywords |
| Document Type |
Other |
| Open Access |
Open Access |
| Source |
Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED) |
| EID |
WOS:001145209600001 |
| WoS Category |
Engineering, Industrial; Engineering, Manufacturing; Operations Research & Management Science |
| Research Area |
Engineering; Operations Research & Management Science |
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