System Dynamics for Manufacturing: Supply Chain Simulation of Hemp-Reinforced Polymer Composite Manufacturing for Sustainability

Gurinder Kaur () and Ronald Kander ()
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Gurinder Kaur: School of Design and Engineering, Kanbar College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19144, USA
Ronald Kander: School of Design and Engineering, Kanbar College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19144, USA

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 2, 1-23

Abstract: Supply chain management (SCM) involves complexities and uncertainties in the flow of goods and services from raw materials to end users. Inaccurate estimation of raw materials, labor, or equipment can lead to financial losses and environmental impacts. This study explores the application of system dynamics modeling (SDM) in manufacturing hemp-reinforced polymer composites (HRPC) to optimize resource usage. Using SDM software STELLA ® (Version 3.7.3), selected for its affordability and features, the research demonstrates how system dynamics (SD) can enhance sustainability by minimizing materials, labor, and equipment, reducing energy consumption. A literature review identified a gap in existing research, as we found no prior studies simulating HRPC manufacturing using SDM. The study concludes that SDM is an effective tool for optimizing resource use and improving manufacturing efficiency. By simulating multiple supply chain scenarios in a risk-free environment, the model helps reduce resource consumption and enhance sustainability. Additionally, outputs from the STELLA ® model can be used as inputs for life cycle assessment (LCA) to quantitatively measure environmental impacts.

Keywords: systems dynamic modeling; sustainable supply chain management; hemp-reinforced polymer composite; modeling product manufacturing (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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