ByFusion uses its Blocker machines to shape plastic waste piles into building blocks, which can help form a complete structure. (Image Credit: ByFusion)
I recycle so much plastic packaging every day, it makes me worried for the planet. I’m just one person. Does any of it actually get recycled? When I saw this Byfusion product, I thought, “this is the way.”
Americans produce 42 million tons of disposable plastic every year, with only 9% recycled. Now, ByFusion, a Los Angeles-based startup, has come up with a unique solution to this problem: turning plastics into building blocks through a special machine. Anyone interested in these machines can rent them for $280,000 per year or purchase the largest one for $1.3 million.
ByFusion’s shaping process relies on steam and compression to produce standard building blocks, called ByBlocks, made of varying plastic types and nonrecyclables. Blockers, the patented machines responsible for performing the heavy work without sorting or cleaning, can squeeze plastic piles together until they form blocks. These can then be used to construct basic structures, including fences, bus stops, and public terraces. ByFusion has already deployed a fully operational system in L.A., processing 450 tons of plastic every year. It also plans to install 12 Blockers across the United States.
ByBlocks measure 16” x 8” x 8” and come in three different types. For instance, one variation features pegs to allow interlocking. Another type is flat, making it easier for builders to mount components on top, like a roof. Lastly, the third version combines both types into one. Currently, the company is in the process of developing smaller-sized blocks.
These building blocks are 10 pounds lighter and last longer than hollow cement blocks. However, outdoor projects require a clear paint coating or weather-resistant material since the plastic degrades in sunlight.
Anyone interested in purchasing these machines can choose from two sizes. One is shipping-container sized, which processes up to 30 tons of plastic per month. Meanwhile, the floor-mounted type can process over 90 tons per month. Overall, the machine works with all plastic types except for Styrofoam. Even better, the plastics don’t need any glue, adhesive, or mortar to fuse. Additionally, the block-shaping process produces zero waste.
These building blocks are more durable and ten pounts lighter than hollow cement blocks. (Image Credit: ByFusion)
So far, ByFusion has recycled 103 tons of plastic and aims to recycle 100 million tons by 2030. Cities such as Boise, Idaho, and Tucson, Arizona have partnered up with the company. ByFusion also collaborated with an elementary school in Lihue to construct a pavilion using blocks made of marine debris and fishing nets from the local area. Ultimately, the company wants to sell these machines to each U.S. city and abroad, helping reduce plastic waste by using it to help create building material.
ByFusion worked with Boise and the Hefty EnergyBay program in 2017, asking residents to split nonrecyclable plastics. Even though 20% participated, the project resulted in transforming 30 tons of bubble wrap, plastic grocery bags, and food containers into building blocks. Some were used in a local park. Now, ByFusion wants to collaborate with municipalities, materials-recovery facilities, and country-wide corporations that would operate the machines.
It's just a tiny bit gross.
Have a story tip? Message me at: http://twitter.com/Cabe_Atwell