Innovation award for closed loop recycling

The companies have initiated a closed loop process to re-use the recovered reinforcement fabrics and thermoplastic polymers produced when the epoxy composite is recycled.
The companies have initiated a closed loop process to re-use the recovered reinforcement fabrics and thermoplastic polymers produced when the epoxy composite is recycled.

A closed loop epoxy recycling project has reportedly won a JEC innovation award.

The project, run by composite specialist Cobra International and epoxy resin producer Aditya Birla Chemicals, involves integrating Aditya Birla’s Recyclamine recyclable epoxy resins into its series production of water sports components. The companies say that they have initiated a closed loop process to re-use the recovered reinforcement fabrics and thermoplastic polymers produced when the epoxy composite is recycled. Following mechanical testing to confirm comparable properties to existing parts, the components were tested on the ensuring the new process did not affect handling or feel.

‘This is a fantastic achievement with huge potential to make more sustainable epoxy components,’ said Danu Chotikapanich, CEO of Cobra. ‘Building on the success of this project, Cobra and our partners are now focusing on scaling up the recycling infrastructure.’

This story uses material from Cobra, with editorial changes made by Materials Today. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of Elsevier.