Dismantling of laminated composite by laser shock

Abstract

In today’s world, composites material composed of two or more components have a significant role to play and are widely used in various applications due to their strength and stiffness [1]. Over the next few years, the EU composite market is expected to grow steadily at a rate of 7.5% [2], leading to an increase in the production and waste of composites. However, composites are complex materials due to their heterogeneous composition, making end-of-life treatment challenging [3]. Moreover, new composite production can also have a significant environmental impact as it requires using natural resources like oil. Recycling composites is, therefore, essential to reduce negative environmental impacts, optimize natural resource use, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions [4]. Though grinding and pyrolysis are common recycling methods, they can cause structural damage to the reinforcing fibers and reduce the quality of the recovered materials [5], necessitating new alternative recycling technologies. This paper aims to present the dismantling of composite materials for recycling purposes using the laser shock process, which is efficient, selective, and novel. We will optimize the process through experiments and numerical simulations, considering adhesion/material properties and process parameters. Additionally, we will study the impact of accelerated aging on the materials to simulate their end-of-life, with online control through sensors. Finally, we aim to preserve the properties of the separated materials and investigate the possibility of reassembling them for recycling purposes, ensuring the integrity of dismantled parts through non-destructive testing methods.

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