3. Thermal processes
Composite materials, like all materials with an organic component (in this case the polymer matrix), have a calorific value that enables them to be used as a source of energy.
For example, thermosetting resins (unsaturated polyester, vinylester, phenolic, epoxy) have an average calorific value of 30,000 kJ/kg.
As the fibers and fillers most commonly used (glass, flame retardants, etc.) are incombustible, the calorific value of a glass/resin composite generally depends on the polymer matrix content (linear variation from 30,000 kJ/kg for 100% polymer to 0 for 0% polymer) [1]. Several solutions for the thermal treatment of waste and energy recovery, including some with partial material recovery of the residues generated, can therefore be envisaged.
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Thermal processes
Mechanical processes
Bibliography
Websites
Waste management, Elsevier http://www.elsevier.com
Waste management & research, Sage http://www.sagepub.com
Journal of material cycles and waste management, Springer http://www.springer.com
...Standards and norms
- Carbon fiber-reinforced plastics – Determination of dimensions and appearance ratio of ground objects - ISO/DIS 30012 -
Regulations
Council Directive 1999/31/EC of 26 April 1999 on the landfill of waste, Official Journal L 182 of 16/07/1999 p. 0001 – 0019
Directive 2000/76/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 December 2000 on the incineration of waste, Official Journal L 332, 28/12/2000 p. 0091 – 0111
Directive 2000/53/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 September 2000...
Directory
MCR (Plastic Omnium Group) Composites grinding
ERCOM Composite Recycling GmbH / ERCOM Fibertec GmbH Composite shredding Launched 1991. Closed in 2004
SCORI (TERIS subsidiary) 54, rue Pierre Curie Co-combustion in cement works
Economic data
Composite materials are traditionally much less recycled (5%) than their competitors (65-70% for steel and 30-35% for aluminum in North America, for example). Recycling has developed strongly in Japan (5 to 10 years ahead of Europe), and is now becoming a regulatory obligation in Europe, where it mainly concerns automotive and electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) waste. The corresponding value chain is illustrated at...
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