Researchers Develop Recycling Method to Address Carbon and Glass Fiber Composites Waste

Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed new methods to recycle carbon and glass fiber composites, which are commonly used in wind turbine blades, hydrogen tanks, airplanes, yachts, construction, and car manufacturing.

The new methods, which are more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than existing methods, could help to reduce the amount of waste from these materials, which is projected to reach 840,300 metric tons by 2050.

One of the new methods involves a process called solvolysis, which uses solvents to break down the composites. This method is more efficient than thermal recycling methods, which use heat to break down the composites, because it requires lower temperatures and produces less waste.

The other new method involves a process called electrochemical recycling, which uses electricity to break down the composites. This method is even more efficient than solvolysis and produces no waste.

The researchers say that their new methods could help to create a circular economy for carbon and glass fiber composites, in which waste materials are recycled into new products. This would help to reduce the environmental impact of these materials and conserve resources.

The researchers are currently working to scale up their new methods and make them commercially available. They believe that their methods have the potential to revolutionize the recycling of carbon and glass fiber composites.