What's A MRF--Setup and Objectives

The learner will demonstrate an understanding of the recycling process and its impact on society by: recognizing and utilizing physics principles in exploring the workings of a materials recovery facility (MRF) formulating models and hypotheses that can be used to explain the interactions of components within a MRF constructing a model of one component of a MRF, and operating it with components constructed by other groups to simulate the sorting of recyclable materials proposing scenarios for the role of a MRF in reducing waste and increasing the recycling potential of a community

Time: One to two class periods

Safety Tips: If tools are used, demonstrate proper use. Avoid the use of sharp objects in the design and in the recyclable mixture.

Students must wear goggles and gloves.

Materials/Equipment:

• Assorted construction materials (see Procedure Step 2)
• Assorted tools (see Procedure Step 2)
• Recyclable materials:
  • aluminum foil (rolled into 1-centimeter balls)
  • aluminum soft drink tabs
  • copper wire
  • paper (shredded)
  • paper clips (steel)
  • plastic grocery bags (shredded)
  • polystyrene packing particles
  • safety pins (steel)

   

• Continue to page 2: Activity Procedure

• SAMPLE ACTIVITY: WHAT'S A MRF?
  • LINK: Setup and Equipment
    • PRINT: Figure 1 (GIF)
    • PRINT: Figure 2 (GIF)
  • LINK: Activity Procedure
  • LINK: Activity Analysis
• Education Order Form (PDF)