Carbon-fibre-reinforced-polymers (CFRP) have known advantages and are typically used for applications in aerospace engineering. Up to date existing mechanical combined with chemical process produce only low-quality recovery of carbon-fibres from the polymer matrices at high costs. Electrodynamic fragmentation has the potential to overcome this situation. The method is based on the interaction of an electrical discharge with a solid between 2 electrodes immersed in water. Selective liberation is caused by a detachment along the interfaces in a tensile stress regime, which allows an intact recovery of the components. Objective of the herein presented proposal was the implementation of a specific electrodynamic fragmentation plant to process CFRP’s with the goal to regain non-damaged carbon fibres, which then can be reused. SELFRAG is a manufacturer and the expert of electrodynamic fragmentation equipment and elaborated above target during several work package. The investigation started with the behaviour of different CFRP’s in the SELFRAG process in regards of different process conditions, equipment setups and process strategies. Liberation of the fibres were assessed by external laboratory. In the following work packages these results were optimised, transferred during up-scaling and prototyping with the final goal of demonstration plant. The stage/gate organisation with achieved milestones guarantees a realistic project management. SELFRAG has the expertise to perform this process development and process engineering, which matches the topic of the call completely.

Future application of this innovative technology means a boost of competitiveness and growth in European Union along with creating jobs. Accelrration of development of clean air technologies for air transport in the EU was achieved.