Carbon Fiber‐Reinforced Polymer Sustainability—A New Outlook on Recycling Methods and Strategic Decision‐Making for the Recovery of Fiber, Matrix, and Composite

ABSTRACT Numerous high‐tech fields, including aerospace, aeronautical, automotive, and sports industries, utilize CFRP components due to the outstanding properties offered by the CFRP microstructure, resulting in increasing use and substantial waste. Regarding CFRP sustainability, extensive studies have proposed CFRP recycling methods that regenerate valuable materials from CFRP waste and transform them into new products. This review examines waste recycling methods, focusing on carbon fiber recovery through thermal recycling, dual recovery of fiber and matrix by chemical recycling, and composite recovery through mechanical recycling. According to the effectiveness of recyclates, the review analyzes various recycling methods, including mechanical pulverization, thermomechanical processing, fluidized bed reactor, microwave irradiation, pyrolysis, ultrasonic‐assisted sonochemical processing, and electrochemical processing. Moreover, processes of low‐temperature solvolysis under mild to subcritical (< 250°C) show promising results in recovery < 99.9% of the fibers and original strength. Additionally, the decision‐making framework supported by the REFM model is presented to assist in value‐added recycling, while the sustainability shield demonstrates a proactive approach to waste prevention. This article presents an in‐depth analysis of CFRP recycling, enabling researchers to identify potential opportunities and challenges associated with specific CFRP recycling methods.