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Composite materials are engineered combinations of two or more distinct materials, merging their individual properties to create a new material with enhanced characteristics. Typically composed of a reinforcing phase (like fibers or particles) embedded within a matrix (often a polymer, metal, or ceramic), composites leverage the strengths of each component to achieve superior strength, stiffness, lightness, or other desirable attributes. Their versatility extends across industries, from aerospace and automotive to construction and sports equipment, where their tailored design and exceptional properties offer solutions for high-performance applications.

Recycling in composites manufacturing is an evolving endeavor aimed at addressing sustainability challenges. Unlike traditional materials, composites often pose recycling complexities due to their multi-component nature. However, innovative techniques are emerging to tackle this issue. Methods like pyrolysis, mechanical recycling, and chemical processes are being developed to efficiently recover valuable components from composite waste, such as fibers or matrix materials.

CAMX 2025: PRF Materials is highlighting Reepreg, its novel Q.tool recycled innovation and will be providing updates on its Product Development and Innovation Centre.

Partner technologies have demonstrated the viability of recycled continuous fibers and the potential for automotive tanks to be recycled at meaningful rates.

With recycling becoming an increasing popular and important aspect of the composites industry, CW editors have collated this list of domestic and international players.

MET-OL thermoplastic technology alters high molecular weight polybutylene terephthalate into low-viscosity oligomers, enhancing fiber impregnation and catalytic repolymerization for fully recyclable, high-performance composites.

CAMX 2025: Vartega’s EasyFeed Bundles now come in a wider array of rCF solutions for thermoplastic compounding, in addition to offering joint product development programs and R&D trials.

Liux’s BIG electric vehicle features multiple structural components manufactured via RTM from flax fabric and a thermoset resin said to enable the entire component to be recycled and reused again.

First session on Industry 4.0 was attended by 22 people representing 16 companies, future sessions planned on sensors, circularity and recycling of composites waste.

Research shows that hot acetic acid cleaves all key bonds within epoxy-amine resins and stabilizes polymer chemical components, making it an effective EOL recycling process for carbon fiber and beyond.

CAMX 2025: Superior Huntingdon Composites highlights its SCS Global-certified glass-reinforced continuous filament mat and surfacing veils, whether for lightweight strength and stiffness or flawless surface finish needs.

The MiniLab innovation program completes third race in 2025, showing good performance and no weaknesses in TPC foils as it examines in situ data and continues lab testing.