Eco-Design of Polymer Matrix Composite Parts: A Review

Abstract

This research presents a series of analyses related to the eco-design of polymer matrix composite parts, addressing various aspects of it. The main objective was to clarify the definition of ecological design, the benefits of its implementation and its importance in all stages of obtaining a product (design, manufacturing, recycling). Global environmental issues are presented, emphasizing the importance of adopting sustainable approaches in product design and manufacturing. Special attention is paid to the analysis of waste recycling technologies for polymer matrix composite materials. The analysis carried out identifies specific ecological design principles applicable to these materials and presents recent trends in the field. Relevant case studies are highlighted, demonstrating the benefits of ecological design in order to obtain sustainable products. Additionally, the conducted research allowed for finding answers to the questions “what”, “why”, “when” and “how” it is necessary to apply the principles of eco-design in the case of composite materials with a polymer matrix. In general, the research promotes eco-design as an indispensable strategy for sustainable and responsible production, inspiring companies to adopt these principles for the benefit of the environment and their business performance.

Strategies towards Fully Recyclable Commercial Epoxy Resins: Diels–Alder Structures in Sustainable Composites

“…The inability to currently recycle commercially available thermoset materials [ 25 ] in an easy, scalable, and sustainable way is forcing the industry to improve recycling technologies. In fact, this impossibility is affecting the chemical industry by demanding eco-design thermoset materials [ 26 ], structures directly designed to be Recyclable, Reprocessable, and Repairable (3R) [ 27 ].…”

Development of New Polyimide/Spirulina Hybrid Materials: Preparation and Characterization

“…Composite polymers are extensively utilized across diverse industries, encompassing construction (for buildings and bridges), automotive (in manufacturing car bodies), aeronautics (where demand for high-strength, low-density materials is critical), and the production of industrial and residential components (such as storage tanks, bathtubs, washing sinks, and shower stalls) [1][2][3][4][5]. Additionally, composite polymers play a vital role in medical applications [6][7][8][9][10][11].…”

Manufacturing Process of Helicopter Tail Rotor Blades from Composite Materials Using 3D-Printed Moulds

“…Composite materials are replacing the conventional ones (metals and wood) in the structure of helicopter blades due to their ease of processing and productivity. The main advantages of carbon fibre and fibreglass composites are the following [5,6]: high strengthto-weight ratio, excellent fatigue resistance compared to metal alloys, high strength, high corrosion resistance, and anisotropy (different physico-mechanical properties in different directions). These properties are the main reasons for the use of composites in the manufacture of aircraft parts, which are improved performance resulting from the ability to optimise the shape, structure, and mechanical properties of the parts, and weight reduction, which improves the efficiency of the parts and the aircraft and allows a higher load or operating range for the aircraft [7].…”