Syensqo, a spin-off from chemicals company Solvay, is partnering with carbon fibre recycler Vartega to recycle post-industrial recycled carbon fibre composites for high performance applications.
Carbon-fibre reinforced compounds are much-prized material choices in demanding applications where a combination of rigidity, mechanical strength, and lightness are key, such as the automotive, aviation, and renewable energy industries. However, these carbon-reinforced plastics are notoriously difficult to recycle efficiently. Separating the fibres from the resin at the end of life is an expensive and challenging process.
This partnership will leverage Vartega’s process to convert Syensqo’s dry carbon fibre and prepreg waste from its North American sites into Vartega’s carbon fiber EasyFeed Bundles.
This recycled material will be then be integrated into Syensqo’s carbon fibre reinforced specialty polymers Echo portfolio, in a cloosed loop approach. Echo speciality polymers are used in high-performance applications in the automotive industry. Typical examples are structural parts, dampening rings and transmission-related applications.
Syensqo offers a range of carbon fibre products that deliver structural, thermal, electrical and frictional performance for a variety of unique applications, including brakes, defence systems, and commercial aircraft.
The Belgium-based company has carbon fibre manufacturing capacity in two facilities in South Carolina, United States, as well as a manufacturing site in Kelheim, Germany.
“We are thrilled to partner with Vartega to ensure that our carbon fibre waste finds a new life within our own portfolio of products,” said Gabriel Molina, Sustainable Development Director Composite Materials Business at Syensqo. “This collaboration aims at enhancing our group’s product offerings while aligning with our One Planet commitment to transition to a circular economy.”