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ABSTRACT
Composite materials with a polymer matrix are widely used in various industrial applications. However, their recyclability is still considered to be delicate and difficult due to their heterogeneity and the existing frequent usage of thermosetting and thus infusible matrixes. A priori, This aspect constitutes a hindrance to their greater penetration in certain markets. Indeed, certain users prefer easier to recycle alternative materials to composites. Regulatory pressure has encouraged industrialists from the composite materials sector to develop recycling and valorization solutions. Dismantling, recycling and valorization processes for such materials tend to be implemented within the various application sectors or transversally.
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Patricia KRAWCZAK: Professor at the École des Mines de Douai - Head of the Polymer and Composite Technology Department, Mechanical Engineering, École des Mines de Douai
INTRODUCTION
Polymer matrix composites have long been used on a large scale in a variety of industrial applications (transport, construction, etc.). Their recyclability, perceived as difficult or at least perfectible due to their heterogeneity and the still frequent use of thermosetting matrices (infusible after manufacture), can however act as a brake on their wider penetration of certain markets. Some users may prefer alternative materials that are easier to recycle. Environmental concerns and regulatory pressure have prompted manufacturers in the composites sector to develop recycling and recovery solutions, whether in terms of materials, heat/energy or chemicals. Against this regulatory backdrop, a number of industry initiatives aim to set up dismantling/recycling/upgrading channels for these materials, either by application sector or across the board.
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Bibliography
Websites
Waste management, Elsevier http://www.elsevier.com
Waste management & research, Sage http://www.sagepub.com
Journal of material cycles and waste management, Springer http://www.springer.com
...Standards and norms
- Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics – Determination of dimensions and appearance ratio of ground objects - ISO/DIS 30012 -
Regulations
Council Directive 1999/31/EC of 26 April 1999 on the landfill of waste, Official Journal L 182 of 16/07/1999 p. 0001 – 0019
Directive 2000/76/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 December 2000 on the incineration of waste, Official Journal L 332, 28/12/2000 p. 0091 – 0111
Directive 2000/53/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 September 2000...
Directory
MCR (Plastic Omnium Group) Composites grinding
ERCOM Composite Recycling GmbH / ERCOM Fibertec GmbH Composite shredding Launched 1991. Closed in 2004
SCORI (TERIS subsidiary) 54, rue Pierre Curie Co-combustion in cement works
Economic data
Composite materials are traditionally much less recycled (5%) than their competitors (65-70% for steel and 30-35% for aluminum in North America, for example). Recycling has developed strongly in Japan (5 to 10 years ahead of Europe), and is now becoming a regulatory obligation in Europe, where it mainly concerns automotive and electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) waste. The corresponding value chain is illustrated at...
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