Sustainability and Circular Economy in Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastics

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components are known for their exceptional resilience and ultra-lightweight nature, making them the preferred choice for applications requiring high mechanical loads with minimal weight. However, the intricate and anisotropic structure of CFRP components poses challenges, resulting in expensive repairs and testing. This complexity also leads to increased waste generation. Yet, innovative recycling processes offer a solution by reintegrating carbon components into a closed material cycle, promoting sustainability and circular economy principles. This work focuses on recycled CFs (rCFs) obtained through a continuous recycling method for CFRP primary recyclate from composite pressure vessel. Furthermore, re-purposing of the separated matrix material for secondary energy sources makes the process, a 100% recycling route. This closed-loop approach addresses conventional pyrolysis challenges and contributes to more efficient utilization of CFRP waste components. rCF and recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) polymers were compounded through an extrusion process. Test specimens were then fabricated according to standard test norms to evaluate the resulting tensile and bending properties. The tensile and flexural modulus of the rCF-rPET obtained are 6.80 and 4.99 GPa, respectively. The need for enhancing the quality of rCF is apparent. Suggestive and potential implications and the marketability of rCF-rPET compounds are also discussed.