2026/10/23
A New Life for 3D Printing Waste
At the Université de Montréal, the FilUM initiative is transforming 3D printing waste into reusable filaments. Failed prints, support structures, and PLA scraps are collected from laboratories and digital fabrication workshops, then sorted, shredded, and extruded to produce new spools of filament.
Launched in 2025, the project has already recovered more than 40 kg of PLA. The recycled filaments can be used to manufacture new parts, particularly for prototyping applications.
Led by Professor Audrey Laventure’s team, this initiative relies on shared resources and centralized waste collection to make recycling more accessible. It demonstrates the potential of collaborative approaches to reduce waste and advance the circular economy in the additive manufacturing sector.