Life cycle perspective of liquid epoxy resin use in the automotive industry

Abstract

Epoxy resins are extensively used as part of the automotive industry, although they are not specifically monitored and recycled. The goal of this study was to summarize the uses and fields of the application of epoxy resins in the automotive industry and show possible ways for its further recovery or energy use at the end of life phase or waste management. To support a general overview of epoxy resins in the automotive industry, lifecycle assessment of these materials was performed and briefly presented. Epoxy resin synthesis contributes to the total carbon footprint of the automotive industry,representing an 84.5% share of the total carbon foot print of the product life cycle. Fossil fuel resource consumption occurs particularly during the phase of LER production.