Embodied Energy Analysis

This document provides a breakdown of the embodied energy calculations for various components and materials, along with potential reductions using alternate materials.

Consumables	Quantity	Length (m)	Width (m)	Thickness (m)	Weight (kg)	Volume (m³)	Unit Embodied Energy	Total Embodied Energy	Reduction if Alternate Material Used	Alternate Material
Wheel(acrylic)	4	0.06	0.06	0.006	0.02484	0.0000216	117	0.00252	36%	Recycled plastic
Wheel supporter (acrylic)	2	0.15	0.064	0.006	0.06624	0.0000576	117	0.00067392	36%	Recycled plastic
Base plate (acrylic)	1	0.15	0.12	0.004	0.0828	0.000072	117	0.008424	36%	Recycled plastic
Bush 1 (acrylic)	2	0.02	0.02	0.01	0.014444	0.00001256	117	0.00146952	36%	Recycled plastic
Circular disc(acrylic)	1	0.087	0.087	0.004	0.0348	0.000030276	117	0.00257346	36%	Recycled plastic
Aluminium rod	1	0.022	0.001	0.001	0.748	0.000276	190	0.05244	0.1%	Wirerod
Pen holder(acrylic)	1	0.135	0.210	0.004	0.13041	0.0001134	117	0.0132678	36%	Recycled plastic
Hook(acrylic)	2	0.050	0.025	0.004	0.00575	0.000005	117	0.000585	36%	Recycled plastic
L clamps(steel)	4	0.02	0.01	0.001	0.0015	0.0000002	32	0.000048	66%	Stainless steel
Bush 2(acrylic)	1	0.02	0.02	0.01	0.014444	0.00001256	117	0.0014625	36%	Recycled plastic
Ball bearing(steel)	2	0.022	0.022	0.006	0.06838	0.000009118	56.70	0.000516	66%	Stainless steel

Justification for the material used:

Acrylic sheet

Lower Embodied Energy: Acrylic sheet has a lower embodied energy compared to materials like glass or metal. The manufacturing process of acrylic sheets requires less energy, resulting in a reduced environmental impact.

Energy-Efficient Production: The production of acrylic sheet involves less energy-intensive processes compared to alternatives. This lower energy requirement contributes to a reduced carbon footprint during manufacturing.

Recyclability: Acrylic sheet is recyclable, allowing for the reuse of materials and reducing the need for energy-intensive production from raw resources. Proper recycling practices can further decrease the overall embodied energy associated with acrylic sheet usage.

Lightweight Construction: Acrylic sheet is lightweight, which leads to lower transportation energy costs. Its reduced weight translates to improved energy efficiency during transportation, contributing to lower carbon emissions.

Long Lifespan: Acrylic sheet has a long lifespan and retains its physical properties over time. Its durability and resistance to degradation minimize the need for frequent replacements, resulting in lower embodied energy associated with maintenance and replacement activities.

On using the alternate material, the embodied energy reduced by 34%