A comprehensive critical review of Life Cycle Assessment applied to thermoplastic polymers for mechanical and electronic engineering

For engineering purposes, thermoplastic polymers are pivotal in mechanics and electronics due to their versatility, durability, and mechanical strength. However, the escalating global production of plastic has sparked environmental concerns, intensifying the need for sustainable plastic production and residue disposal practices. In this sense, a critical issue is the formation of microplastics, tiny fragments resulting from the degradation of larger plastic objects, during the items’ production, usage and disposal. Addressing these challenges necessitates methodologies capable of identifying and mitigating environmental impacts, making Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis fundamental for evaluating the environmental footprint of thermoplastic production processes. This research represents the first critical analysis of the application of LCA to technical thermoplastics in mechanical and electronic engineering, emphasising the urgency of comprehensive environmental analyses to understand and mitigate impactful production phases. The study identifies gaps in existing literature, underscoring the necessity for effective impact mitigation systems to foster sustainable practices in thermoplastic manufacturing for engineering applications. The results of this work can be useful for both the scientific community and technical stakeholders. For researchers, the results offer insights and practical recommendations for refining future LCA studies on thermoplastics for engineering applications. For technical stakeholders, particularly plastic manufacturers, this work provides critical information on the current environmental impacts of their production processes, supporting efforts toward more sustainable practices.