Research database

The project aims to use recycled carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs) to produce 2 large automotive components, such as front bumper and rear tail of Emilia5 solar-powered vehicle built for the World Solar Challenge. These parts have an aerodynamic function, should host the front and back lights, beside possibly including the concomitant lamination of solar cells on top. CFRPs are increasingly popular materials because of their lightweight and superior mechanical performance. Unfortunately, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) CFRP parts clearly marks them as non-sustainable. Introducing this class of materials into a circular economy is thus paramount to reduce their overall carbon footprint and comply with EU regulation for vehicles. Validation of waste reuse in new applications is still one of the highest challenging issues in CFRPs recycling. The project's outcome will be the 2 components manufactured in recycled and virgin material and a dataset about the recyclability of the material.