An Investigation on the Possibility of Retrofitting 3D Printers from Local Scrap E-Waste in Nigeria

Three-dimensional (3D) printing is an additive manufacturing procedure, with capability of producing desired materials under computer control. While the technology is fast gaining global momentum, the cost is still prohibitive, especially in low-income economies. This places substantial hindrance to its enormous benefits of good aesthetic finish and precision of throughputs, among others. Development of 3D printers from Electrical/Electronic-waste can improve environmental sustainability. This study attempts to utilize the ubiquitous electrical and electronic waste materials prevalent in Nigeria to fabricate a cost-effective 3D printing demonstration unit, which can be used to introduce students to additive manufacturing. Using an experimental research approach, the study was divided into three different phases, which include: scrap gathering, sorting, characterization and specification; fabrication and assembly as well as programming and calibration. The results show that E-waste scraps, which constitute menacing waste management issues, can convert to wealth through deployment in 3D printer fabrication and utilization.