About

In a linear economy, waste is an endpoint. In a circular economy, it is a resource. This calculator is designed for the "Precious Plastic" community and eco-conscious individuals who view trash as raw material. By quantifying the potential of household waste, we facilitate the transition from passive consumption to active production.

Using data on specific plastic densities ρ (like HDPE and PP) and standard item weights, this tool calculates the total recyclable mass, the estimated market value of the shredded regrind, and the length of 1.75mm 3D printing filament L that could be extruded from your collection. It gamifies the recycling process by assigning tangible metrics to sustainability efforts.

Formulas

The potential filament length L is derived from the volume of the plastic, assuming a standard filament diameter d of 1.75mm.

{

V = mρL = Vπ × d2²

Where V is volume in cm³, m is mass in grams, and ρ is density. CO2 savings are estimated based on a factor of 1.5kg CO2 prevented per 1kg of recycled plastic vs virgin production.

Reference Data

Symbol	Polymer Name	Density (g/cm³)	Melting Point (°C)	Common Items
PET (1)	Polyethylene Terephthalate	1.38	250	Water bottles, food containers
HDPE (2)	High-Density Polyethylene	0.95	130	Milk jugs, shampoo bottles, caps
PVC (3)	Polyvinyl Chloride	1.40	210	Pipes, wire insulation (Do not burn)
LDPE (4)	Low-Density Polyethylene	0.92	110	Plastic bags, squeeze bottles
PP (5)	Polypropylene	0.90	170	Yogurt cups, straws, Tupperware
PS (6)	Polystyrene	1.05	240	Disposable cutlery, CD cases
Other (7)	Mixed/Composite	N/A	N/A	Eyeglasses, nylon, acrylic
ABS	Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene	1.04	230	LEGO bricks, computer casings

Frequently Asked Questions

Theoretically, yes, but HDPE, PP, and PET are the most common for DIY extrusion. PVC (Type 3) releases toxic chlorine gas when heated and should NEVER be used in home recycling setups.

The calculator uses global averages (e.g., a standard bottle cap is ~2.5g, a milk jug ~60g). Real-world weights vary by manufacturer and region, so weighing your batch provides the most accurate result.

The value represents the cost of purchasing an equivalent amount of raw virgin pellets or cheap filament. It highlights the economic value currently being thrown into landfills.

Filament length is a practical metric for makers. Knowing that your week's waste equals 50 meters of printing material visualizes the direct link between waste collection and creative production.