Feasibility Analysis of Sustainability-Based Measures to Reduce VOC Emissions in Office Partition Manufacturing

Abstract

Abstract:A feasibility analysis is reported of reduction opportunities for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in manufacturing office furniture partitions, aimed at contributing to efforts to improve the sustainability of the process. A pollution prevention methodology is utilized. The purpose is to provide practical options for VOC emissions reductions during the manufacturing of office furniture partitions, but the concepts can be generally applied to the wood furniture industry. Baseline VOC emissions for a typical plant are estimated using a mass balance approach. The feasibility analysis expands on a preliminary screening to identify viable pollution prevention options using realistic criteria and weightings, and is based on technical, environmental and economic considerations. The measures deemed feasible include the implementation of several best management practices, ceasing the painting of non-visible parts, switching to hot melt backwrapping glue, application of solvent recycling and modification of the mechanical clip attachment. Implementation, measurement and control plans are discussed for the measures considered feasible, which can enhance the sustainability of the manufacturing of office furniture partitions. Reducing VOC emissions using the measures identified can, in conjunction with other measures, improve the sustainability of the manufacturing process.

Sustainable Manufacturing and Design: Concepts, Practices and Needs

“…In this case study, measures to improve the sustainability of office partition manufacturing by reducing VOC emissions are examined, based on two previous investigations by one of the authors [81,82].…”

“…The measures deemed most viable include implementing several best management practices, not painting the non-visible parts, switching gluing processes, recycling solvent and modifying attachments. Next, a feasibility analysis is reported of reduction opportunities for VOC emissions in manufacturing office furniture partitions, based on a follow-up study by one of the authors [82], aimed at contributing to efforts to improve the sustainability of the manufacturing process. The feasibility analysis expands on the preliminary screening reported in the previous paragraph that identifies viable pollution prevention options based on technical, environmental and economic considerations.…”

Engineering Sustainability: A Technical Approach to Sustainability

“…Bakshi and Fiksel [31] have examined challenges for process systems engineering, in the context of the broader quest for sustainability. Concepts and practices, as well as needs, for sustainable manufacturing and design have been studied [32] and applied [33,34]. The extension of systems engineering for sustainable development is described [35].…”