Preliminary design of a reverse vending machine for collecting used surgical masks and its user acceptance in Thailand | |
| Author | Thanatwit Boonkosol |
| Call Number | AIT RSPR no.MPA-21-33 |
| Subject(s) | Microplastics--Environmental aspects--Thailand Plastic scrap--Environmental aspects--Thailand |
| Note | A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master in Marine Plastics Abatement |
| Publisher | Asian Institute of Technology |
| Abstract | During the Covid-19 pandemic, the people created a large amount of disposed surgical masks as waste. Nowadays, we can see there are lots of plastic wastes, especially pandemic-related waste, ending up in landfills, waterways, and oceans. From the research, the disposed surgical mask is the threat of pollution to the environment and animals. In each month, billions of surgical masks are used and disposed of globally. Disposed surgical masks also create problems to the waste management system because it is contaminated waste and not easy to eliminate. Disposed surgical masks also reduce the quality of life of the waste pickers which increase their possibility of contracting the virus. Moreover, if disposed surgical masks are not properly disposed and segregated, it will become almost impossible to recycle. However, some developed countries can recycle the disposed surgical masks to be various products. The Reverse Vending Machine has been developed through many years. The machine also improves more user friendly. For example, it uses the Internet of Things to connect the device and machine with applications for further functions. This research will highlight the design of the Reverse Vending Machine which can improve the quality and quantity of waste management from collecting surgical masks. The machine can convince people to dispose of waste in the right way. To get the points and discount, users are required to trade in the waste. For maximum capability, the survey from questionnaires of the small group user in Thailand is the necessity. Because the Reverse Vending Machine for disposed surgical masks should serve user wants in the actual use area. The user's thoughts also help to develop the design and functions of the machine. The ultimate result of this research is the successful design development by the preliminary design of a Reverse Vending Machine for Collecting Used Surgical Masks in Thailand. |
| Year | 2021 |
| Type | Research Study Project Report (RSPR) |
| School | School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD) |
| Department | Department of Energy and Climate Change (Former title: Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Change (DEECC)) |
| Academic Program/FoS | Marine Plastic Abatement (MPA) |
| Chairperson(s) | Xue, Wenchao |
| Examination Committee(s) | Thammarat Koottatep;Tatchai Pussayanavin |
| Scholarship Donor(s) | Asian Institute of Technology Scholarships |
| Degree | Research studies project report (M.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2021 |