Composite Recycling

Our focus in recycling composites is separating the individual materials of the fiber-reinforced plastic. This is a great challenge due to the structure of composite materials, in which carbon or glass fibers are firmly anchored in a plastic matrix (thermoset or thermoplastic).  

A sensible and efficient further processing of the recycled fibers or matrix base materials is also a current research topic. For this reason, Fraunhofer IGCV is working on the recycling of fiber composites, in particular carbon fiber plastics, to ultimately make an essential contribution toward a resource-saving and climate-neutral world.

The focus of the numerous research projects of Fraunhofer IGCV in the field of recycling of composite materials is on the recycling of carbon fibers.

The researchers are investigating and developing the entire recycling chain, starting with fiber-matrix separation, characterizing the recovered carbon fibers, and finally reusing the carbon fibers in rCF semifinished products that are finally used again in a component. They are also looking at the life cycle assessment of materials made from rCF and the use of alternative, more sustainable matrix systems.
In the development of rCF-based semifinished products, they are advancing nonwoven, tape and yarn production with various partners, research institutes and industrial companies. The production of wetlaid nonwovens and their optimization is the focus of Fraunhofer IGCV, which operates its own wetlaid nonwoven plant on a pilot plant scale at the Augsburg site.

Industrial customers can profit from the expertise of Fraunhofer IGCV in the field of recycling composites through direct cooperation. Here, for example, the following topics can be covered:

• Material and comparison studies
• Process development and optimization
• Technology consulting on recycling issues for carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) such as design for recycling and digital recycling management

Our fields of activity are as follows …

• Single fiber characterisation
• Composite characterisation
• Fiber-matrix separation by e.g. pyrolysis (of e.g. CFRP)
• Database with material properties of more than 100 rCF materials
• Nonwoven development – especially wetlaid nonwovens
• Consolidation of rCF-based semi-finished products (vario- and isothermal processing)
• rCF tape development
• Use of alternative matrix systems (e.g. bio-based)
• Life cycle assessment

The modular training for "Composite Engineer" bundles the competencies of Fraunhofer Lightweight Construction Alliance in FVW. Participants in this course will be trained by experts working in current research in the various topics relevant to FVW. This ensures a direct transfer of knowledge and technology.

The module Sustainable Production Systems takes place at Fraunhofer IGCV in Augsburg.

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