Understanding uncertainty in recycling carbon fiber reinforced composites

Abstract

Recycling of carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRPs) is a trending topic in the context of the current levels of CFRPs application in different industries and evolving environmental legislation and regulations. However, the recycling processes tend to be accompanied by various uncertainties leading to an increase of difficulties in evaluating them. This study aims to investigate the uncertainties that accompany the recycling of CFRPs by identifying, categorizing, and analysing their impacts. Four main categories such as technical (primary recycling process), recyclate pre-processing, supply chain, and market uncertainties were identified in this study and analysed in a wider context.