Eco-efficiency Performance Comparison of Additive and Subtractive Manufactured Parts

Abstract

This thesis aims to develop a decision support tool for the manufacturing industry, which has been achieved through the 'techno-eco-efficiency' framework. The framework provides a comprehensive assessment of additive and subtractive manufactured parts by integrating technical feasibility assessment, environmental life cycle assessment, life cycle costing, and eco-efficiency assessment. The framework has been implemented on virgin polymer composite and metal parts. Additionally, the social impacts and the eco-efficiency improvement strategy of material recycling has been explored.