Toray initiates carbon fiber recycling in collaboration with Toyotsu. By applying heat to used carbon fiber composites and decompose binding resin, carbon fiber will be separated for re-use. Gas generated by the decomposition of binder can be utilized as a fuel so that the energy consumption for this process could be considerably reduced. Toray will develop the technology for carbon fiber recycling, and, Toyotsu will develop the application of recycled carbon fiber. There is no carbon fiber recycling technology established at present, and both companies prospect the carbon fiber recycling business in near future.

JCFA News Letter (No.12) May, 2016/Japan Chemical Fibers Association