In this section we will evaluate the recyclability of two products to learn more about how Design for Recycling guidelines can be applied in practice. To do so, we have dismantled and photographed a faulty vacuum cleaner and a broken electric kettle. They are pictured below. We deliberately chose End of Life products, since this is the condition that most products are in once they arrive at a recycling facility. Their designs are dated, and the products themselves are often broken or dirty and show signs of heavy use.

Exterior of Vacuum Cleaner

 

Exploded view to illustrate the build of the vacuum cleaner

 

Exterior of the electric kettle

 

Exploded view to illustrate the build of the electric kettle