Development and design of a SmartERZ Smart Composites Recycling Centre

TRICYCLE is a project within the interdisciplinary innovation initiative SmartERZ from the Ore Mountains, which was funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) as part of the ‘WIR! – Change through Innovation in the Region’ programme. SmartERZ is a cross-sector technology alliance dedicated to the development of functionally integrated fibre-reinforced composites.

The project developed a technological recycling concept for future smart products as well as for the waste generated during production in the region. The aim was to develop standardised, scalable processes with the highest possible degree of automation, whilst complying with applicable laws, regulations and standards. The results of the 28-month project include the centre concept, data collection on potentially available regional quantities and subsequent recycling options, and the development of specific design guidelines for products to facilitate recycling.

Integrated into the existing structures of the SmartERZ region and beyond, the concept for a centre has emerged which is intended to function as a kind of hub for regional waste relating to this topic. Through this, waste streams can be collected, pre-treated and prepared for material recycling. The pre-treatment includes technologies such as quality control/quality management, shredding, pelletising and compaction. This hub is also intended to make even very small quantities accessible to economically viable recovery routes and reuse.
In addition to material networking, the concept for the recycling centre includes the prerequisites to function as a networking hub for the topic of (textile) circular economy. Businesses, research, academia and public institutions can and should engage in dialogue to identify the best possible recovery options for relevant waste streams, but also to promote waste prevention and reuse, create durable products and share knowledge.