The R&D project is focused on improving the recycling and revaluation of fibre-reinforced polymers, which are generally epoxy resins reinforced with high-performance fibres, such as carbon fibres or glass fibres. These materials offer high technical performance, including good mechanical properties, high thermal and chemical resistance, and high lightness. As a result, they are in high demand from the aeronautics and automotive industries as an alternative to the metallic materials they usually use.
Andaltec researchers have developed a recycling method based on solvolysis that achieves the depolymerisation of anhydride and amino-type epoxy resins. Andaltec has demonstrated that up to 30% recycled resin can be used in the materials studied, although the optimum amount will depend on the final application of the material.
These materials offer significant advantages over other alternatives, including excellent mechanical properties, such as high thermal and chemical resistance, as well as a very light weight. The increased efficiency of the recycling process of these materials offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly production process based on the principles of the circular economy. Secondly, the ‘Re-composite’ project succeeds in revaluing and reusing high-value materials, resulting in significant economic savings for the automotive and aircraft component industries.
The project is financed through a line of aid for the implementation of R&D&I projects for private agents of the Andalusian Knowledge System, which is managed by the Andalusian Regional Ministry of Economy, Knowledge, Business and University of the Andalusian Regional Government.
