rCF-Mobil

In the rCF-Mobil research project, cut-off waste generated during the processing of carbon fiber textiles is to be reused as load oriented fiber reinforcement in thermoset CFRP structural components. For this purpose, recycled carbon fiber nonwovens (rCF nonwovens, developed by Wagenfelder Spinnereien GmbH) are to be supersaturated with resin and then impregnated with rCF fabrics in a specially designed resin transfer press process (RTP). During the RTP process, the excess resin is pressed from the fleece into the fabric and the entire structure is consolidated. The B-stage character of the resin systems used should allow the supersaturated nonwovens to be stored at room temperature for a longer period of time (weeks). Processing waste from the project partner ACE Advanced Composite Engineering GmbH is used as the basic material. The long-term goal is thus the waste-free production of FRPC components through a closed recycling cycle.

The process development is already at an advanced stage. An epoxy resin system was successfully enhanced with a B-stage functionality. rCF nonwovens were supersaturated in an industry-scale process. The RTP process is currently being characterized on flat plates using the materials developed in the project. Composites
United e.V. is responsible for project coordination as part of the new “KMU-NetC” funding program.