LCA of Reusing Carbon Fibers Recycled Through Solvolysis Process of Thermoset Composites

Abstract

The life cycle assessment method was applied for the evaluation of the impacts related to the recycling process of carbon-fiber/thermoset composite through solvolysis and the reuse of the recovered carbon fibers in the production of new composite laminates. The avoided impacts were calculated for the case of replacing virgin carbon fibers and virgin glass fibers with recycled carbon fibers in the production of laminates for skis. Avoided impacts on the main impact categories were accounted by the CML mid-point impact assessment method. Damage on human health, resources and ecosystems were calculated with the Recipe end-point method. Reduced damages were found when replacing virgin fibers (both carbon and glass) with recycled carbon fibers. In our study we assumed that the recycled carbon fibers were ready to use and no other treatment was required. The life cycle assessment (LCA) was used to assist the eco-design of a new possible ski structure.