Microwave Assisted Gasification for Recycling Polymer Matrix Composites

Polymer matrix composites have better strength/weight ratios, durability, and corrosion resistance than metal, and can be used to replace metals in automobiles to provide better automotive fuel efficiency. However, these composites are often considered unrecyclable, and new novel methods must be created to recover the reinforcements and to convert the polymer matrix to value-added products, instead of overloading our landfills. In this project, two strategies will be utilized to efficiently convert the organic matrix of polymer composites to usable chemicals or fuels. Both strategies avoid strength degradation or size reduction of the inorganic reinforcement, allowing the reinforcements to be directly recycled into new composite structures. The first strategy entails the utilization of microwaves to enhance catalytic activity, thereby increasing the efficiency and reaction rate during gasification of the polymer matrix composites. The second strategy entails the design of new glass fiber or particle reinforcements that act as internal dielectric heaters, which initiate heating of the composite during the gasification process, and result in cheaper and faster composite recycling. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Compared to traditional structural materials, composites can provide a higher strength-to-weight ratio and increased corrosion resistance for aircraft, shipboard structures, automobiles, and public transportation vehicles. These two advantages lead to reduced weight, increased fuel efficiency and payload capacity, and decreased lifetime ownership costs. The proposed technology should sustain and expand the automotive recycling industry, in which 11 million vehicles are recycled each year at over 7000 recycling companies with over 45,000 employees.