PATENTED TECHNOLOGY

Ultrasonic Composite Recycling System

The system operates by immersing composite materials in a specialized solution while applying ultrasonic energy at specific frequencies. This process breaks down the polymer matrix without damaging the carbon fibers, maintaining their mechanical properties for reuse in new composite applications.

Ultrasonic Composite Recycling System
Client/Partner:

Aerospace Industry Consortium

Category:

Environmental Engineering

Duration:

3 Years

Patent:

US Patent #9776107B1

Status:

Commercialization Phase

Project Overview:

This revolutionary patented technology addresses one of the aerospace industry's most pressing challenges: the disposal of expired pre-impregnated composite materials. Traditional disposal methods result in millions of dollars of valuable carbon fiber being sent to landfills. Our ultrasonic recycling system uses high-frequency sound waves to separate fibers from resin matrices, enabling the recovery of carbon fibers worth thousands of dollars per pound.

Ultrasonic Composite Recycling System Gallery
Ultrasonic Composite Recycling System Gallery

What We Achieved:

Our comprehensive approach to this project encompassed multiple phases of development, testing, and implementation:

  • Developed proprietary ultrasonic frequency parameters for optimal fiber-resin separation
  • Created environmentally friendly solvent systems that enhance the recycling process
  • Designed scalable equipment for industrial implementation
  • Conducted extensive testing on various composite material types
  • Established quality control protocols for recovered fibers
  • Achieved 95% fiber recovery rate with minimal property degradation
  • Reduced recycling costs by 60% compared to traditional methods
  • Eliminated hazardous waste generation through green chemistry approaches
  • Created closed-loop recycling system for aerospace manufacturing

Project Impact & Results:

The technology has been successfully licensed to major aerospace manufacturers and composite recycling facilities. Implementation has resulted in diversion of over 500,000 pounds of composite waste from landfills annually, with recovered fibers valued at over $10 million. The process has received environmental certifications and is being adopted globally as the standard for composite recycling.

100%

Success Rate

50+

Researchers Involved

25+

Publications

Multiple

Awards Won

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