Investigating the Compressive Strength of CFRP Pre-Preg Scrap from Aerospace Industries: Compression Molding

Scrap is generated from the various manufacturing techniques of composites using prepregs. With the increasing amounts of composite waste generated, there are still no feasible techniques to re-use this scrap other than disposing it in landfills which implements concerns such as environmental and economic. Waste disposal charges are added to the cumulative manufacturing costs, which raises if the waste is categorized as hazardous in addition to the environmental duplications. With the current certain of growth, these factors have driven the development of recycling paths. This study focuses on investigating the compressive strength of carbon fiber reinforced polymer CFRP prepreg scrap from aerospace industries using compression molding. From this paradigm, we can define the potential applications they can be re-used for. Moreover, the newly developed scrap-based sample forms can help in leading several new business ideas for a more thorough vision in the industry. The process is demonstrated using prepreg scrap leftovers obtained from STRATA CFRP manufacturing processes used for aerospace purposes. The work frame followed in this study was to initially prepare the appropriate conditions and the material for the process, execute the compression molding, and then test the final samples for mechanical properties. The main parameters considered and evaluated in this study are the compressive strength and the modulus of elasticity of the samples, which are compared for applicability in the final phase of the study. This work offers a feasible and environment friendly solution to the increasing prepreg scrap waste problem in the composites industry, including an opportunity for the industry to redeem some original material cost. Furthermore, this process can later also be combined with other traditional processes for a more advanced improvement in properties.