New technology for circular use of fibers and polymers from composite materials. (CirKomp)

Important results from the project

The project´s objective is to develop a knowledge base for the commercial exploitation of Librixer´s separation technology for recycling fiber composites. The quality of the resulting fibre fractions has been studied as well as the reuse of fibers in a new matrix. For comparison, a conventional fractionation technique, in this case a knife mill, was used. Results indicate that Librixer technology has the potential for better separation of fiber and matrix than milling, but a subsequent cleaning step is recommended to exploit the potential technology.

Expected long term effects

The project results indicate that Librixer´s technology can facilitate the recycling of composites and the use of the recycled fractions in valuable products. Implementation of the technology is expected to create new business opportunities for actors in lightweight technology, e.g. by enabling the recycling of wind turbines and boats in an economically sustainable process. The project has led to new collaborations with actors in the plastics and recycling industry and has aroused interest in the wind power industry. Global exploitation is expected on the long term.

Approach and implementation

The project work was carried out in three work packages, where WP1 focused on production and characterization of recycled fractions from used wind turbine blades with Librixer technology. WP2 developed new composite materials with recycled fiberglass (GF) from Librixer and compared with milled composites (from the same material) and virgin GF. WP3 provided State-of-the-Art evaluation of competing technologies and reporting. These activities have led to a well-founded decision basis that enables Librixer to take strategic decisions in the area of lightweight materials.