Review of recycling methods of thermoplastic composite materials

• Published in: Polymer-plastics technology and engineering 2024-08, Vol.63 (12), p.1693-1713
• Main Authors: Türker, Yasemin Sümeyye, Öztürk, Fahrettin, Öz, Yahya
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aerospace industry; Closed loops; Composite materials; Electronic waste; Energy consumption; Garbage collection; High temperature; Recycling; Thermoplastic composites; Thermoplastic resins; Wastes
• ISSN: 2574-0881; 0360-2559; 2574-089X; 1525-6111
• DOI: 10.1080/25740881.2024.2352148

Usage of thermoplastic composites with low densities is increasing, with lightness coming to the fore especially in the aerospace industry while various sectors like automotive, electronics, sport etc. are also following the trend. Important factors for the preference of thermoplastics are the increase in the amount of waste of conventional materials in addition with increasing product requirements. Composite wastes are accumulated in certain composite collection centers in the world and disposed by incineration. Until at least 2025, studies on recycling are carried out in the European Union. Within this regard, the most important feature of thermoplastics is that they can be melted and shaped again at high temperatures. In this way, recycling of fibers and matrices is possible. Mainly thermal and chemical methods are preferred for obtaining fibers while mechanical methods are preferred for obtaining the matrix. Hence, it is aimed to use both open and closed loop recycling in order to reduce wastes, energy consumption, fossil fuel consumption, and the carbon footprint. Note that these recycling approaches are also of significance for the circular economy concept. Correspondingly, this review thematizes current recycling methods for thermoplastic composites.