Abstract

The use of CIDETEC's patented 3R technology allows the development of thermoset composites that are intrinsically Reprocessable, Recyclable and Repairable (3R). These materials are very interesting for sectors as diverse as energy, transport, and construction, as they maintain the high performance of conventional thermoset composites and can be processed using common manufacturing technologies. The use of prepregs is one of the methods used to manufacture thermoset composites, but it is a labour-intensive and cost-intensive process. In addition, the epoxy matrix of prepregs, which is partially cured (called B-phase) and sticky, requires them to be stored cold (refrigerated or frozen) and, once the due date has passed, they cannot be used to form a consolidated laminate because of their lack of adhesion. The dynamic character of the 3R epoxy resin described here makes it possible to manufacture what we have called "enduring prepregs", which are (semi-)cured, non-perishable prepregs, with the advantage that they can be stored at room temperature without losing their adhesion capacity. Moreover, it is possible to process them using techniques as diverse as AFP (automated fibre placing) or thermoforming to manufacture multilayer composite parts. This communication will present the latest advances and the objectives of several European projects funded under the H2020 (CARBO4POWER - GA.953192) and Horizon Europe (BIO-UPTAKE -GA. 101057049 and GENEX -GA. 101056822) frameworks, which are working on the development and optimisation of these "enduring prepregs" for different sectors.