Abstract
The UpComp-project addresses resource-efficient recycling routes for polymer-impregnated carbon fiber composites used in the construction sector, with a focus on epoxy resins (EP) and polyurethanes (PU). The project aims to establish a circular process that enables the recovery of high-quality carbon fibers and the regain and upcycling of polymer matrices under mild reaction conditions. In a first step, electrochemical methods are applied to selectively separate polymers from carbon fibers at temperatures between room temperature and 200 °C, avoiding hazardous chemicals and preserving the mechanical performance of the fibers. In another approach, the impregnated fibers are subjected to a chemocatalytical conversion, yielding defined molecular building blocks rather than complex product mixtures typically obtained via pyrolysis. These building blocks are subsequently upgraded via electrocatalytical and chemocatalytical routes, including the incorporation of carbon dioxide, to generate tailor-made monomers and value-added chemicals. Additionally, fiber surface characterization and re-sizing will ensure the reusability of the recovered fibers in new composite applications. By combining electrochemical separation, chemocatalytical polymer recycling, and CO₂-based upconversion, the project contributes to material circularity, resource efficiency, and climate-neutral construction materials within the CARE framework.
