The HDPE Recycling

HDPE - The Base Plastic

HDPE consists of almost 30% of all plastic produced. In BC, only 9% of plastic is recycled, this represents an untapped resource that is cheap and readily available.

The Initial Idea

If HDPE is ending up in the landfill and destroying our ecosystem. Why don't we do something with it?

The first sample, HDPE and 3% Kevlar pulp, proved to us that HDPE can stop bullets. Why not turn this waste into a life saving product?

First serious prototype

The first serious prototype consisted of PLA impregnated Kevlar matrix, this showed us that it was indeed possible to impregnate Kevlar, another waste byproduct that is extremely toxic to the environment.

The first sample was bulky, and had poor impregnation rate.

First serious prototype

This prototype was able to withstand a single 9x19. This was our first step into serious territory.

However, following the second shot, delamination failure occurred and the plastic shattered. Failing to stop any further shots.

From here, the idea blossomed.

Delamination Failure Testing

Because the first serious sample exhibited significant delamination issues. We wanted to ensure that the following samples are able to withstand a multitude of impacts. A thin sample was manufactured, and significant amount of shots was put on target.

Backside of the Delamination failure

With changes in production methodology, as well as switching to HDPE. Delamination became less of an issue.

Tensile Testing

Stopping bullets and field testing is fun and all. But what about the actual material properties?

We actually had to schedule with the SOE's Civil Engineering department, because we managed to overload the Mechanical Engineering department's tensile tester!