Method and system for recycling uncured composite offcuts

摘要

The present invention relates to a method of recycling scraps or offcuts (S) of uncured composite material, such as preimpregnated or "prepreg" scraps or offcuts having reinforcing fibres and uncured polymer matrix material, comprising the steps of: introducing the scraps or offcuts (S) into a mixing device (2) directly; mixing the scraps or offcuts (S) in the mixing device (2) to blend uncured polymer matrix material and reinforcing fibres of the scraps or offcuts (S) into a generally homogenous or consistent mixture (M); and feeding or conveying the said mixture (M) from the mixing device (2) into a shaping mechanism (12) to form a component or semifinished product and preferably on a continuous basis. The present invention also provides a corresponding system (1) for recycling scraps or offcuts (S) of an uncured composite material. Said system, further comprises a film applicator device (14) configured to apply a film layer (fi, f2) from a film roll (15) to at least one side of the mixture (M) fed or conveyed from the mixing device (2), wherein each film layer (fi, f2) preferably forms a release film to assist removal of the component or product from the moulding tool (16).