PLASTICS RECYCLING AND SUSTAINABILITY

ME 310

Introduction to all important aspects of polymer processing and engineering including polymeric materials, material properties, design and manufacturing considerations, processing methods, part performance, post-consumer recycling and upcycling, societal responsibilities and ethics, and various techniques for modeling in materials processing like dimensional analysis, design of experiments, analytical solutions, and computer simulation.

EPD 650

Introduction to the principles of polymer processing. Review of the basic techniques primarily in use by industry as well as foundational principles of polymer physics, viscoelasticity and rheology. Focus on understanding how design of process is used to achieve desired structure and properties. Includes introduction to topics such as 3-d printing and recycling of polymer waste in the context of reprocessing such materials.

DS 555

Explores sustainable fashion design through the lens of circular design principles, ethical production, alternative business models, and material innovation. Emphasizes waste reduction, upcycling, regenerative design, local production networks, and closed-loop fashion systems. Combines theoretical exploration with hands-on projects to analyze the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry, experimental approaches, and creative solutions that align with circular economy frameworks. Encourages critical thinking, material research, and the development of fashion garments with minimal environmental impact.

DS 529

Artists and designers' material choices influence the content, social meaning, and physical structure of their work, as well as leaving an environmental foot print and affecting social exchange. Consideration given to reuse and recycling, and critically engaging ideas of sustainability in art making and design practice with an emphasis on fiber related topics including textile and apparel design, soft sculpture, papermaking and book arts, as well as exhibition, installation, and/or the distribution of finished works.

EPD 660

Introduces real-world pragmatic skills and applications in sustainability competencies. Content reaches across engineering expertise, from chemical engineering to buildings to product design and energy. Modules cover ecological footprinting, lifecycle assessment, resource use and integrated engineering practice.