Composite matters
As a new waste law that prohibits the dumping of glass fibre-reinforced composite waste comes into force in Finland in 2016, waste producers are considering alternative waste disposal options. One solution is to co-process this material in cement kilns. Via its LUMI-project, Ketek of Finland carried out research into the viability of this proposal. By Pekka Erkkilä, Technology Centre Ketek Ltd, Finland.
Typical composite waste from boat production
Options to recycle glass fibre-reinforced composite waste into new products are limited and recycling rates are only around two per cent. Moreover, the combination of its low energy content and considerable ash volumes makes this waste a less interesting fuel for power plants.
