🏆 Best Project 1st Place
The objective of this project is to determine novel applications of Reclaimed Fiber Product (RFP) to lower cost of disposal from American Eagle Paper Mills.
Sponsor
Keri Gleason
Team Members
Youngsuk Youn Neal Desai Brandon Wehbey
Project Poster
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Project Video
Project Summary
Overview
American Eagle Paper Mills produces paper using recycled fiber generated in its unique integrated deinking and re-pulping system, giving new life to discarded paper. The recycled papermaking process creates a byproduct referred to as reclaimed fiber product, or RFP. The mill has implemented a new processing plant dedicated to reducing the water content of this material to decrease transportation costs.
Objectives
– Research and develop novel applications or disposal methods of RFP to aid American Eagle in removing the waste material from the mill, including a cost analysis of the method.
– Create informational material targeted at land application customers explaining the benefits of RFP.
Approach
– Participate in weekly meetings with sponsors to go over the work the group has done and any questions
– Research current applications of paper sludge material to gain an understanding of the industries which may benefit from RFP
– Conduct multiple experiments to determine and understand the properties of RFP as a soil additive
– Use laboratory data to create a cost analysis and informational brochure
– Experiment with RFP and create composite materials with interesting properties considering potential applications
– Document material properties of samples created and recommend additional tests experiments for future analysis
Outcomes
– A Cost Analysis was created to determine the efficacy of using RFP as a high pH soil additive.
– A brochure was designed to market the material to local farmers or other customers involved in land application
– Several potential products were identified which could use RFP.