Sustainability and Industrial Design: A Study on AC EV Chargers’ Material Selection

This study investigates sustainable material selection in industrial design and sustainable design, focusing on electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to address emissions. Through extensive literature review and market analysis, the research underscores the critical importance of sustainable practices amid evolving environmental concerns. The study identifies polycarbonate (PC) as the primary material used in AC charging stations and explores alternatives to reduce emissions. Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) emerges as a promising alternative, given its compatibility with PC and established industry usage. Utilizing the rule of mixture approach, various ABS-PC combinations undergo thorough analysis to assess their impact on emissions, density, mass, mechanical properties, and safety factors. Optimal mixtures are identified based on safety factor values, which determine the part's lifespan under environmental conditions. Implementation of these identified mixtures has the potential to significantly reduce emissions per product, thereby advancing sustainability goals within the EV charging station domain. This study offers a comprehensive framework for designers and engineers to navigate sustainable material selection, advocating for the integration of sustainability considerations into design processes to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable development in the manufacturing sector.