Closing loop for plastic scrap at manufacturing plant - case study Sartorius

Abstract

This thesis work aims to investigate the potential of using production scrap from the Sartorius manufacturing plant in Helsinki to produce a reusable pipette tip box that can complement the Sartorius refill tower and refill pack. The goal is to determine the efficiency of using this material and whether the amount and plastic type of scrap correspond to the needs of the reusable pipette tip box. To analyze the suitability of the materials, the amount of scrap was quantified and sorted by plastic type. The prototype of the reusable pipette tip box, developed by the product development group of Sartorius Finland, was used for measurements, as it has all the required characteristics.

To better understand the life cycle and applications of the reusable pipette tip box, a laboratory assessment survey was conducted. The results were used to gain insight into laboratory waste operations as well as potential interest in reusable pipette tip boxes. Additionally, a competitor analysis was performed to assess the availability, autoclavability, sustainability, and application of reusable boxes in the current market.

The potential impact of this work extends beyond finding a test alternative solution for single-use boxes to partially switching from a linear economy to a circular economy, which will reduce waste and promote more efficient material use for Sartorius. This, in turn, could lead to cost reduction and increased competitiveness among competitors.