Alternative Plastic Materials for Increased Sustainability of Husqvarna K770

Abstract

Injection molded glass fibre reinforced polyamides are widely used in various components of Husqvarna’s powercutters. To increase Husqvarnas knowledge about the environmental impact of such components, and find ways to improve it, a case study on a plastic cover made of glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6 was performed. An analysis of the life cycle of the component highlights the material extraction as the major source of green house gas emissions and that there is little or no connection between end-of-life and material extraction. Based on the component demands, three material candidates with lower environmental impact was selected for prototype manufacturing; one mechanically recycled glass fibre reinforced polyamide 6, one glass fibre reinforced polypropylene and one wood fibre reinforced polypropylene. The following prototype component testing of impact strength, heat resistance and chemical resistance so far indicates that all candidates could have potential to replace the current material for increased sustainability.