Wedoany.com Report on Mar 10th, Daher Group is accelerating the industrialization of thermoplastic composite revalorization by establishing a complete chain from scrap collection to material reuse, aiming to reduce carbon footprint and enhance material circularity. This strategic initiative builds upon the Group's over ten years of technological accumulation in the field of thermoplastic composites. Its high-load thermoplastic wing ribs won the 2026 JEC Innovation Award in the Aircraft Components category, reflecting achievements in technological innovation.
Daher Group's revalorization strategy focuses on two key aspects: revalorizing thermoplastic scrap generated during production, and recycling end-of-life aircraft components. At its plant in Saint-Aignan-de-Grandlieu, Loire-Atlantique, France, and the Shap’in technology center, the Group has implemented a structured process to collect scrap on-site, grind it, and transform it into semi-finished pellets containing 56% carbon fiber. These pellets offer excellent temperature resistance, moisture resistance, and chemical corrosion resistance, making them suitable for injection molding processes to manufacture complex technical components. Currently, 100% pure carbon PPS scrap is reused through this process, with an estimated annual capacity of 4 to 8 tons and 1.5 tons of inventory available for sale. The Group has also developed filaments for additive manufacturing, providing new options for 3D-printed technical parts.
Concurrently, Daher Group, in collaboration with Airbus, Toray Advanced Composites, and Tarmac Aerosave, undertook a landmark project: recycling thermoplastic composite panels from the A380 and reintegrating them into the manufacturing of A320neo components. This project won the JEC Innovation Award in the Circularity & Recycling category, demonstrating the capability for closed-loop recycling from end-of-life structures to new applications. The certified recycled parts exhibit mechanical properties equivalent to new materials, proving the feasibility of closed-loop recycling for thermoplastic composites in the aviation sector. Julie Vaudour, Deputy Director of Daher Group's R&D Department, stated: "Through industrialized revalorization, we optimize the use of strategic materials, enhance material autonomy, and open up application prospects for aerospace and other sectors." This process is expected to enhance industrial sovereignty, reduce environmental impact, and promote the sustainable development of thermoplastic composites across a broader range of industries.
