A study on the effect of an oxidizing atmosphere during the recycling of CFRP by pyrolysis

Composite materials are increasingly in demand. However, challenges such as high raw-material costs and complicated waste management impede their adoption. Overcoming these obstacles requires efficient recycling methods. Pyrolysis effectively recycles carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs). This study proposes a cost-effective CFRP recovery approach utilizing conventional ovens to minimize recycling expenses and maximize reclaimed-product value. Pyrolysis was conducted under atmospheric conditions at 450–600 °C, lasting 1–6 h at each temperature. It was optimal at 2.5 h and 500 °C. Higher temperatures caused fiber degradation, and lower temperatures excessively prolonged duration. After determining the optimal conditions, composite plates were produced using recycled carbon fibers and a vacuum-assisted resin infusion process. Subsequent physical characterization and mechanical tests were conducted on these plates to assess the recycled-CFRP properties. The recovered tensile strength and tensile modulus were 88% and 97% that of virgin carbon fibers (vCF), respectively.