The use of recyclable epoxy and hybrid lay up for biocomposites: Technical and LCA evaluation

Thermoset composites end of life is an increasing problem for many industrial sectors. The widespread and increasing use of thermoset-based composites in automotive applications poses increasing concerns about composite's end of life because of EU directives. Specifically, the Directive 2000/53/EC requires that about 85% of the weight of the vehicle must be re-used as end of life option by recycling or energy recovering process. The use of thermal-based recycling methods has two main limitations: it does impact the environment and it does damage the reinforcing fibers. To overcome such limitation recyclable amine technology patented by Connora Technology appears as a promising solution. In addition to that, most of the epoxy formulation used nowadays are still based on petroleum-derived epoxy monomers. This limits the green content of the composites used thus impairing their overall environmental impact. In the present paper we discuss the use of green recyclable epoxy formulation based on the use of bioepoxy monomers cured with recyclamines by Connora. The final goal of the paper is to demonstrate the possibility to develop truly green recyclable composites based on thermoset matrices. The hybridization of carbon fiber fabrics with natural fiber fabrics is also addressed. The study focus both on technical and environmental aspects. On the technical side the processing and mechanical performances of the composites developed were analyzed. The use of recycled products obtained by the novel recycling approach were also studied. The environmental relevance of the composites and of the recycled products were addressed by the use of Life Cycle Analysis. LCA allowed to unveil the environmental burden connected with the use of recyclable amines and hybrid carbon/natural fiber composites