Composites offer significant advantages where high strength and low weight are required. These materials are, unfortunately, also very difficult to recycle. Composites consist of fiber reinforcement embedded within a polymer matrix. The polymer may be a thermoset, such as epoxy, or a thermoplastic, such as polyester. Separating the fibers from the matrix is a huge challenge for recycling, especially where thermoset materials are used. Production costs for composite components are also very high. Now ProDrive, a UK motorsport specialist, has developed a process that looks set to reduce production costs while enabling low-cost recycling, therefore also reducing material costs. This may open up new applications for composites in mass-market products such as cars. Read the full article published on engineering.com…
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