IACMI signs new partnerships to grow carbon fiber recycling

IACMI, the Composite Recycling Technology Center and Peninsula College leadership signed three-way collaboration agreements to develop composites recycling technologies as well as train the advanced composites workforce of the future. 

Author: Edited by  Heather Caliendo , Managing Editor- Electronic Products
Posted on: 7/1/2016 

Source: CompositesWorldThe Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing Innovation (IACMI), Knoxville, Tenn., and Composite Recycling Technology Center (CRTC), Port Angeles, Wash., have established a new partnership to advance both carbon fiber recycling and workforce development. The partnership will also create a satellite operation for IACMI in the Washington area.

About 29 million pounds of composite scrap end up in U.S. landfills every year, which is a challenge the new partnership will meet head on, according to a news release. IACMI, CRTC and Peninsula College leadership signed three-way collaboration agreements to develop nationally deployable composites recycling technologies and train the advanced composites workforce of the future. 

This new partnership will add CRTC’s expertise in composite recycling to The Composites Institute, and serve to broaden the national impact of the Institute while expanding the capabilities of the Port Angeles facility. CRTC will serve as the West Coast “portal” for the Institute, working with other research institutions, industry and more on behalf of The Composites Institute. In addition, CRTC will have access to world-class level facilities, equipment and partners.

“Port of Port Angeles is taking the lead for the nation in solving carbon fiber recycling for manufacturing,” said U.S. Sen. Cantwell. “This agreement gives the Composite Recycling Technology Center real world-class chops in solving how to break-down carbon fiber which will lead to jobs.”

“Innovative products made from recycled carbon fiber provide this region with opportunities for transforming our economy, attracting and training the best and brightest, and leading the nation in sustainable composites manufacturing.” said Robert Larsen, CRTC CEO. “We are pleased to partner with The Composites Institute, a like-minded organization committed to innovation and a green industry future. Our collaboration with Peninsula College will provide the critical workforce needed for success.”

Peninsula College will support the partnership through its Advanced Manufacturing-Composite Technology program, including the first-of-its-kind Composite Recycling Certification, and its Composites Manufacturing Lab, to be located in the CRTC facility at the Port of Port Angeles. The program will give students hands-on training in advanced materials recycling and remanufacturing techniques. 

http://www.compositesworld.com/news/iacmi-signs-new-partnerships-to-grow-carbon-fiber-recycling-