Advanced Composites Recycling/Reuse Program

Advanced composites usage has grown ever since their introduction in the l970's. Consequently, a large volume of advanced composites waste has been generated over the years because of the high scrap rate (two-to-one) in composite production. The prevalent method of disposal into landfills is becoming prohibitive due to increased cost, negative public opinion, and legislation. This project will address this critical issue by surveying the composite materials used in weapon systems, researching the possible approaches to recycling/reuse, analyzing recycling/reuse processes, and narrowing down the alternatives to one preferred strategy and one alternative strategy to be demonstrated in Phase II. The project will conclude with a final detailed report outlining the pros and cons of one preferred strategy and one alternate one of which will be demonstrated in Phase II and ultimately put into production at Production Products, Inc. in Phase III. Environmental Engineering Services will solicit its partner's knowledge of composite recycling. Both McDonnell Douglas Aerospace - East and Production Products, Inc. were involved in the Composite Prepreg Scrap Reclamation program, a cntract funded by Greatlakes Composite Consortium (GLCC) which operates the Navy's Center of Excellence for Composite Manufacturing Technology (CECMT).