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Roads to Research Student Spotlight

Michael Quinto, Engineering

Michael Quinto, Engineering

Bobcats Repurpose: A Plastic Recycling Revolution
Michael Quinto, 2021 URF recipient and 1st place URC poster winner, 2022

My goal for this project has always been to research, build, and inspire a recycling community here at Texas State University so that my fellow and future Bobcats could make a positive difference on the issue of plastic waste in this world. I was originally going to do this by building a series of machines that will allow people to recycle and repurpose their plastic waste on their own. These plans evolved into me building the shredder machine and aiding Senior Design Projects who are building the injection molder and a bench out of recycled materials. Currently, the shredder is fully functional and the injection machine is in its final stages of testing. In tandem, these machines will allow anyone to turn their used plastic into new useful products. These products include coasters, key chains, screwdrivers, soap dishes, and many more options to come. Our research and development will be finished by the end of this semester and I plan to open a workshop here at Texas State where students can bring their used plastics and repurpose them into different items. I will also continue to share my recycling workshop in the community to demonstrate the positive outcome of recycling through a new student organization called Bobcats Repurpose. My goal is to show that when students come together, we can make a huge impact.
Mentor: Dr. Austin Talley