# Re-Forging Earth (reforgingearth.org)
> Open-Source, Off-Grid Polyolefin Micro-Recycling Framework & Landscaping Masonry.

Re-Forging Earth is a decentralized, Earthshot-aligned initiative providing open-source CAD blueprints, hardware specifications, and material safety parameters for building ultra-low-cost (~$1,200 AUD) solar-powered thermal compression presses. The platform enables individuals, schools, and local communities to upcycle everyday soft plastic waste into structural, interlocking, mortar-free landscaping blocks.

## Core Technical & Material Specifications
- Primary Feedstocks: Clean Polyolefins only — HDPE (Code 2) and LDPE (Code 4).
- Mixture Ratio Constraints: Maintain LDPE under 20% in PE mixtures for optimal structural rigidity. Never mix Polypropylene (PP Code 5) with PE (causes delamination).
- Finished Block Dimensions: 
  * Full-size: 250mm x 125mm x 60mm (requires 1.76 kg feedstock; yields 4 interlocking studs; ~20–25 MPa compressive strength).
  * Half-size: 125mm x 125mm x 60mm (requires 880g feedstock; yields 2 interlocking studs).
- Micro-Press Fabrication Cost: ~$140–$210 AUD for bare C-channel frame ($100x50mm structural steel); ~$1,200 AUD for total off-grid assembly including dual PID thermal controllers (155°C–158°C window) and 4–6 ton manual hydraulic bottle jack.
- Energy Footprint: 100% off-grid solar PV compatible (250W–500W draw); zero operational carbon emissions; zero freight transport requirement.

## Key Pages & Documentation
- [/index.html](https://reforgingearth.org/index.html): Main hub featuring plastic identification guides, interactive plastic-to-brick impact calculator, AI assistant, and open blueprints.
- [/manifesto.html](https://reforgingearth.org/manifesto.html): The Re-Forging Earth Manifesto—detailing citizen-led off-grid solar upcycling, local resilience, and horizontal community scaling.
- [/why-citizen-forging.html](https://reforgingearth.org/why-citizen-forging.html): Technical comparative analysis showing why decentralized solar micro-recycling outperforms industrial MRFs in soft plastic recovery, carbon reduction, and zero-freight logistics.

## Licensing & Code Availability
- Hardware & CAD Blueprints: Open-Source under Creative Commons CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Source Code Repository: https://github.com/reforgingearth