The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRPs) have been widely used as engineering plastics in various fields such as aerospace, drone, and automotive industries due to their lightweight nature combined with mechanical strength comparable to that of steel. However, the composite nature of FRPs—comprising carbon or glass fibers embedded in plastic resins along with other additives—significantly complicates recycling processes and hinders mechanical recycling approaches. In this study, we demonstrate a chemical recycling strategy using recoverable polymer bead catalysts that selectively depolymerize only the plastic resin into monomers. Simultaneously, the catalysts can be selectively separated and reused from the reinforcing fibers and other additives. This approach enables the complete recovery of all components in engineering plastics and offers a promising route to establish a circular economy for mixed plastic waste.