Introduction

Eventhough it’s light and strong, carbon fiber composites (CFRP) aren’t
particularly easy to recycle. Researchers at the University of Sydney
have developed a pyrolysis separation method that retains up to 90%
of the fibers.
The demand continues to grow around 10-12% annually, mainly due
to the wind turbine, aeronautics, space and automotive industries.
Finding a reliable recycling methods is therefore an ecological along
with an economic issue.

Recycling carbon fiber composites: a major challenge

Most of CFRP waste in France and anywhere else are either incinerated or
landfilled.

Until today, it’s practically impossible to recycle carbon fibers. Many

recycling methods involve shredding, cutting, or grinding which makes
the fibers to wear out, hence reducing its viability.
This represents a huge challenge and a threat to our environment as it
obliges the production of brand new carbon fiber, resulting in
greenhouse gas emissions
Recycling carbon fiber composites: a major challenge

The majority of CFRP waste collected in France and elsewhere is incinerated or

landfilled.

Conventional recycling methods also risks breaking its polymer chains, which
then reduces the mechanical strength and physical properties.
 The latest recycling method
Sacrifying the matrix while preserving the fibers
The method consists of two steps :
Firstly, pyrolysis, by destroying the matrix via thermal degradation. Its major flaw
is leaving a carbon residue around the fibers, this will prevent chemical bond
when incorporated into a new resin matrix.
To cure this issue, a second step is necessary which involves an oxidation process
on high temperature.
This method is so successful where specific conditions such as temperature,
heating rate, atmospheric pressure, oxidation and heating time are perfectly
regulated to preserve its mechanical properties and to guarantee its quality.

Conclusion
For the time being, this method works fine since it allows the recycling
of CFRP while maintaining 90% of its original strength.
However, this solution is only an example among other possible
separation methods available out there.