A Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of a Composite Component for Automotive

In this study we present results on the environmental impacts associated to the production of an interior side door panel made of hemp fiber and epoxy resin, by using the life cycle assessment method. The composite was manufactured through vacuum bag infusion that improves the fiber-to-resin ratio and results in a lighter product. In this case, the weight of the panel is a very important aspect for the impact evaluation because the vehicle use phase is dominant compared to the manufacture and end of life phase. Recycling of the composite through coprocessing in cement kilns was assumed as waste scenario. One limit of thermoset composite wastes is that they are usually landfilled because recycling is not easy. Recent applications of recycled composite have shown that thermoset composite regrind is an ideal raw material for cement manufacturing. The mineral composition of the regrind is consistent with the optimum ratio between calcium oxide, silica, and aluminium oxide. Additionally, the organic fraction supplies fuel for the reaction heat, right at the spot where it is needed most. LCA comparison with petroleum-based composites was carried out.