Partial photo: Krzysztof Hepner
An improved recycling process for carbon fibers has been developed that retains properties of fibers at a higher rate than previous methods, demonstrating a retention strength of up to 90%. Recycling of composite materials could be up to 70% cheaper and lead to a 90-95% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to standard manufacturing. Carbon fibre reinforced polymer(CFRP)composites are present in products like wind turbines, aeroplane parts, vehicles such as cars and ships, and everyday technology such as laptops and mobile phones. They are typically disposed of in landfills or by incineration. The vast majority of existing recycling methods also cause a major reduction in the mechanical and physical properties of the recovered material, weakening its core functionality so this could make a real difference.
www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210308111930.htm