Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis of Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymers and Optimization Using the Box-Behnken Response...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Carbon fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs) present recycling challenges.
• Developing sustainable methods for CFRP reclamation is crucial for resource management and environmental protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and optimize an eco-friendly microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) method for CFRP reclamation.
• To investigate the influence of various process parameters on resin decomposition.
• To evaluate post-pyrolysis treatments for enhancing recovered carbon fiber quality.

Main Methods:

• Microwave-assisted pyrolysis (MAP) with Box-Behnken experimental design.
• Analysis of parameters including inert gas flow, power level, rotation frequency, and reaction duration.
• Post-treatment evaluation: mechanical abrasion, chemical dissolution, and thermal oxidation.

Main Results:

• Optimal MAP conditions (2.9 L/min nitrogen flow, 914 W power) yielded a 79.6% resin elimination.
• Nitrogen flow and power were the most significant parameters influencing resin decomposition.
• Thermal oxidation and chemical dissolution effectively removed 100% of surface carbon black.

Conclusions:

• MAP is an effective method for CFRP reclamation, with optimized parameters significantly improving resin removal.
• Post-treatment is essential for achieving high-purity recovered carbon fibers.
• SEM and XPS analyses confirmed the quality of recovered carbon fibers compared to virgin ones.