Towards recycling cost modelling framework for carbon fibre composites

Abstract

Environmental legislation is increasingly pressuring the management of carbon fibre composite (CFC) waste through recycling and reuse. This paper proposes the initial development of a comprehensive cost modelling framework for recycling CFC materials, focusing on both mechanical and pyrolysis-based thermal processes. The study outlines the key activities and tasks inherent in each recycling route. Adopting a five-phase qualitative research plan, the authors identify major and detailed cost drivers affecting the recycling process. The proposed framework is implemented in an IT-based cost estimation tool that streamlines the handling and computation of cost parameters. This tool systematically catalogs all tasks and activities associated with the two recycling methods, facilitating more accurate and user-friendly cost estimation.