A Blockchain Technology based Framework for Environmental and Social Impact Authenticity of a 3D Printed Product

Abstract

This paper proposes a conceptual framework for implementing blockchain technology to enhance traceability, transparency, and authenticity of a 3D printed product. An implementation framework is developed using blockchain technologies to record and trace critical attributes during the various life cycle phases of a 3D printing value chain, viz. raw material extraction, chemical processing, polymerization, filament production, 3D printing, and end-of-life recycling of the product. The information on critical attributes of carbon footprint, workers' age, and material flow during the entire value chain is captured to provide authentic output of carbon footprint and labour age during any of the value chain activity. The uniqueness of the current work lies in offering a series of immutable transactions using blockchain technology to comprehend the circularity of 3D printing material and account for the overall carbon footprint produced by a 3D printed product considering its whole value chain. This would improve the traceability and visibility of the material supply chain for 3D printing. On the hindsight, the proposed framework is expected to assist the manufacturing firms to act as responsible manufacturers by providing the authentic data for the computation of environmental assessment as well as social issues of child labour throughout the value chain.