Chemical recovery of carbon fibers from composites via plasma assisted solvolysis

Abstract

In this work plasma assisted solvolysis using nitric acid is proposed for chemical recovery of carbon fibers from carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy resin composites (CFRCs). Complete decomposition of the epoxy matrix could be achieved, regardless the composites’ geometry. The efficiency of the process was examined in terms of a) process duration, b) resin decomposition rate and c) materials properties. SEM and EDX data showed that the recovered fiber surfaces are almost free of epoxy resin residuals and their tensile strength was comparable to that of typical virgin carbon fiber. The process decomposition efficiency is very high without requiring additional organic solvents or high temperature / pressure, stressing the potential of this method for viable recycling of CFRCs.