Sustainable recycling and reutilization of carbon-based materials: from waste to high-value applications
Journal
Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers
Start Page
106283
ISSN
1876-1070
Date Issued
2025-07-11
Author(s)
Abstract
Background: Carbon-based materials, such as carbon fiber composites, graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and biochar, are vital in industries such as energy storage, construction, electronics, and environmental protection. However, their widespread use has led to recycling challenges due to complex structures and additives, making effective recycling essential for mitigating environmental impact to promote circular economy. Methods: This review examines current recycling methods for carbon-based materials, focusing on waste sources, recycling techniques, and potential applications. It covers thermochemical processes (pyrolysis, gasification, hydrothermal carbonization), mechanical separation, chemical recovery, biological approaches, and emerging photothermal decomposition technologies. Advances in purification and modification of recycled carbon materials for high-value applications are also discussed. Significant Findings: The review identifies key sources of recyclable carbon, such as carbon fiber composites, waste tires, biomass, and electronic waste. It highlights promising recycling technologies, particularly thermochemical and mechanical methods, and addresses the need for improved performance of recycled materials through surface functionalization, graphitization, and binder additives. Challenges in scaling up recycling processes, including energy use, material degradation, and contamination, are also addressed, along with insights into optimization of recycling techniques for sustainability.
Subjects
Carbon-based materials
Circular economy
Purification
Recycling
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Type
journal article