Groundbreaking Results in Composite Recycling Promise a Greener Future

In a significant collaboration between two innovative sustainability startups, Northern Light Composites (nlcomp) from Monfalcone, Italy, and Composite Recycling based in Ecublens, Switzerland, exciting new findings have emerged regarding the recyclability of nlcomp's rComposite material. This partnership is seen as a game-changer, paving the way for enhanced circular economy applications in sectors such as marine and wind energy, among others.

Composite Recycling has pioneered a thermolysis-based recycling process that effectively addresses the end-of-life treatment of carbon and glass fibers. This method not only recovers high-quality fibers but also extracts valuable oils, thereby offering a sustainable solution for composite waste. Currently, the company is experimenting with various composite and resin systems to fine-tune its technology and assist clients in demonstrating the recyclability of their products.

The focus of the study is nlcomp’s rComposite, a material that ingeniously merges a thermoplastic matrix—specifically Arkema’s Elium resin—with low-impact raw materials. The initial tests conducted by Composite Recycling revealed results that surpassed all expectations, confirming the promising future of rComposite in sustainable applications.

Impressively, the treated glass fibers recovered from the recycling process displayed no impurities and had a remarkably soft and pliable texture. High-resolution electron microscope imagery showed minimal residues, indicating their great potential for reintegration into new composite materials. Notably, the reclaimed oil analysis revealed that nearly 80% of the recovered components were identified as methylmethacrylate, a highly sought-after precursor for manufacturing new high-performance materials.

These groundbreaking results come on the heels of nlcomp receiving recognition from DNV (Det Norske Veritas) for the recyclability and recycled content of their rComposite, validated under the ISO 14021:2016 standards in October 2023. Both nlcomp and Composite Recycling have gained notable accolades within the composite industry, including victories at the Monaco SmartYacht Award and the Metstrade Boatbuilder of the Year Award in consecutive years, which further demonstrates the industry's trust in their innovations.

“Our collaboration with Nlcomp exemplifies our commitment to revolutionizing the lifecycle of composite materials,” stated Guillaume Perben, CEO of Composite Recycling. “The results we’ve achieved not only reinforce the significance of innovative recycling processes but also bring us closer to a future where composite waste is entirely redirected from landfills to create valuable new products.”

As the world increasingly focuses on sustainable practices, these developments are a timely reminder of the vital role that recycling technology plays in the transition toward a circular economy. Stay tuned for further updates as these companies continue their pioneering efforts in composite recycling!