Anticipating in-use stocks of carbon fiber reinforced polymers and related waste flows generated by the commercial aeronautical sector until 2050

Abstract Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP) are increasingly used in commercial aircraft. Thus, the amount of in-use stocks of CFRP and related waste flows generated by the aeronautical sector will grow quickly through waste generation of end-of-life aircraft. This publication will provide a prospective assessment of the amounts and their localization of the worldwide in-use stocks of CFRP and related water flows until 2050. It has been found that by 2050 nearly half a million tons of CFRP waste will be generated in total, most of the waste will be located in North America and in Europe with about 162,000 t and 145,000 t respectively. In fact, this will allow to anticipate the efforts needed to properly recycle those future CFRP waste flows. Thus, this study provides a useful guide on the establishment of a CFRP waste management program, including timeframes and specific recommendations for high priority locations, and finishes with a discussion on the most promising recycling techniques of CFRP waste.