Search Results

The technology to recycle thermosets exists as reported in the bibliography. The purpose of this article is to explore the economics of recycling thermosetting sheet molding composite (SMC) wastes generated by the molding plants. The principles discussed here equally apply to other thermoset composites and, in general, to other plastics. A recycling model is presented that will accept waste SMC as input and delivers value-added end product for reuse as output. Recycling methods considered are briefly reviewed. A cost model is developed to illustrate the economics of various proposed recycling paths. SMC is assumed to be shredded at the molding sites and delivered to the “RECYCLING PLANT” (RP) in lieu of being shipped to a landfill site. A fee equal to landfill fees is charged for this service; a source of income for the RP.