Sizing effect on reclaimed continuous carbon fibres's properties extracted from recycled automotive composite parts
Topic(s) : Special Sessions
Co-authors :
Dionisis SEMITEKOLOS (GREECE), Ioannis PAPADOPOULOS , Silvia ZECCHI (ITALY), Costas CHARITIDISAbstract :
Unlike traditional materials, fibre reinforced polymers (FRPs) offer superior strength-to-weight ratios and corrosion re-sistance, making them a preferred choice in industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction and wind energy. However, the widespread adoption of FRPs has concurrently led to an increased concern regarding their disposal and environmental impact at the end of their lifecycle. In response, there is a necessity to develop innovative solutions for treating EOL large composite structures that go beyond conventional practices of incineration or burial. Recycling, re-using, and repairing these structures not only align with sustainable practices but also mitigate the ecological footprint associated with the disposal of non-biodegradable materials.
In this research, an in-depth analysis into the characteristics of reclaimed continuous carbon fibers extracted from re-cycled automotive composite parts is conducted, with a focus on the potential enhancement of their properties through sizing. University of Patras has developed a process employing plasma solvolysis to recycle drive shafts containing continuous carbon fibers while preserving their original length. The study investigates two types of reclaimed fibers, processed through a pilot-scale sizing line. Specifically, 3k CF is subjected to 30% sizing for utilization in 3D printing (3DP) applications with a thermoplastic resin, whereas 24k CF undergoes 1% sizing for filament winding, for thermo-set resin applications. The evaluation of fiber properties involves analysis of three samples: commercial fibers, recy-cled fibers, and those subjected to sizing. Surface morphology is examined through SEM analysis, investigating the surface details of the fibers. The chemical bonds introduced through sizing process are assessed via FTIR and XPS analyses. The investigation extends to the assessment of enhanced fiber-matrix affinity through contact angle goni-ometry, providing valuable information into the interfacial characteristics. To assess the impact on the mechanical properties of the fibers, single fiber and yarn tensile tests are conducted. Moreover, in order to improve their perfor-mance, the study investigates the incorporation of nanomaterials synthesized from solvolysis wastes through chemi-cal vapor deposition (CVD).
In this research, an in-depth analysis into the characteristics of reclaimed continuous carbon fibers extracted from re-cycled automotive composite parts is conducted, with a focus on the potential enhancement of their properties through sizing. University of Patras has developed a process employing plasma solvolysis to recycle drive shafts containing continuous carbon fibers while preserving their original length. The study investigates two types of reclaimed fibers, processed through a pilot-scale sizing line. Specifically, 3k CF is subjected to 30% sizing for utilization in 3D printing (3DP) applications with a thermoplastic resin, whereas 24k CF undergoes 1% sizing for filament winding, for thermo-set resin applications. The evaluation of fiber properties involves analysis of three samples: commercial fibers, recy-cled fibers, and those subjected to sizing. Surface morphology is examined through SEM analysis, investigating the surface details of the fibers. The chemical bonds introduced through sizing process are assessed via FTIR and XPS analyses. The investigation extends to the assessment of enhanced fiber-matrix affinity through contact angle goni-ometry, providing valuable information into the interfacial characteristics. To assess the impact on the mechanical properties of the fibers, single fiber and yarn tensile tests are conducted. Moreover, in order to improve their perfor-mance, the study investigates the incorporation of nanomaterials synthesized from solvolysis wastes through chemi-cal vapor deposition (CVD).