A Sustainable Microwave-Assisted Process for Chemical Recycling and the Reuse of Epoxy Resin Matrices

Abstract

This work presents an optimized and sustainable chemical recycling method for epoxy resin matrices, which uses microwave-assisted reactions to achieve the complete recovery of the matrix without generating waste byproducts. The proposed method employs a green chemistry approach, with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and tartaric acid (TA) as the eco-friendly reagents. Microwaves are used to activate the chemical reaction, ensuring localized heating, reduced energy consumption, and shorter processing times compared to conventional thermal methods. Unlike most existing recycling processes, which focus on fiber recovery, this study emphasizes the recovery and reuse of the matrix, transforming it into a valuable resource for producing new thermosetting materials. The recovered matrix was characterized using FTIR and H-NMR analyses, confirming the presence of reactive functional groups that enable its reintegration into new composite matrix formulations. The process has also demonstrated environmental benefits and economic advantages due to the absence of any waste and the reduced need for virgin raw materials. This method addresses a critical gap in composite material recycling, paving the way for a circular lifecycle and advancing the principles of sustainability in materials engineering.