Cygnet Texkimp and Viritech Recovering Continuous Carbon Fibers from H2 Tanks for Ford Project

As part of the FCVGen2.0 project, led by Ford Motor Company and funded in part by the Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), Cygnet Texkimp and Viritech have partnered to reclaim high-value continuous carbon fiber from hydrogen tanks at the end-of-life for reuse in new applications.

Cygnet Texkimp’s technology recovers carbon fiber from a nano-infused, resin-based material system developed by Viritech. Viritech’s graphene nanomaterial is processed at Cygnet Texkimp’s Innovation Centre using the DEECOM composites recycling solution, applying pressure and superheated steam to separate the fibers from the polymer matrix. The reclaimed fibers are unwound and rewound onto bobbins to be readied for reuse.

Traditionally recycled carbon fiber is processed as short fibers and limited to use for sheet molding compound, extrusion, or fiber reinforced plastics. The recovery and unwinding of continuous fibers allows the recycled fibers to be used in place of virgin fibers in pultrusion, weaving, towpreg, filament winding, and other applications.

Dr Yan Liu, senior research and development specialist at Cygnet Texkimp and project leader said, “Our partnership with Viritech demonstrates the potential for hydrogen tanks to be recycled at a meaningful rate. This is significant because it supports the automotive industry’s work to achieve true circularity in the manufacture of filament-wound parts by recovering fibers in a way that’s convenient for their reuse and maximizes their potential ongoing value.”

Aislinn Kiely, project delivery lead at APC, added, “The capabilities that Cygnet Texkimp and Viritech have developed while working on the FCVGen2.0 project highlight the mutual benefits that can be unlocked by undertaking collaborative research & development activities. Cygnet Texkimp’s recovery and recycling process, coupled with Viritech’s material development, offer a significant opportunity to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles and establish a zero-emission vehicle manufacturing supply chain in the UK.” Cygnet Texkimp and Viritech are continuing the partnership to extend the development of filament winding technology for sustainable, efficient manufacturing for hydrogen pressure vessels.

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