Teijin creates thermosetting CFRP with heat-activated self-heal and chemical recyclability

Overview

Teijin has developed a thermosetting, long carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) that combines a heat-activated self-healing function with chemical recyclability while offering mechanical properties equivalent to conventional CFRPs. The material targets weight-sensitive applications including aircraft, automobiles, industrial machinery and sporting goods, aiming to extend product life and reduce resource consumption.

Technology Functionality

Self-healing through heating: damaged resin layers can be repaired by heating at a prescribed temperature for a short time, allowing continued use and avoiding premature disposal.

Recyclability through remolding: unlike conventional thermosetting CFRPs, the new CFRP exhibits flowability after molding when heated within a specified range, enabling recycling via compression molding and similar processes.

Carbon fiber retrieval/reuse through resin decomposition: carbon fibers can be separated from the thermoset resin by soaking recovered CFRP in a specific chemical solution, replacing energy-intensive high-temperature combustion and allowing efficient, lower-impact reclamation of long fibers.

Commercialisation and next steps

Teijin aims to provide samples in 2028 and will continue R&D with universities and partners, optimise material formulation and component design, refine recycling processes, and pursue joint development and supply-chain building toward mass production and broader application.