Teijin Develops Self-Healing and Recyclable Thermoset Carbon Fiber Composite
BY Composights
Published: 30 Jul 2026
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Teijin Carbon Europe GmbH has developed a next-generation thermosetting carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) that integrates self-healing functionality with multiple recycling pathways, representing a significant advance in sustainable composite materials for high-performance applications.
The newly developed composite is designed to extend product lifespan while improving end-of-life recovery. Unlike conventional thermoset CFRPs, which are difficult to repair or recycle after curing, the new material enables damage repair, reshaping, and carbon fiber recovery through innovative material engineering.
One of the key features of the technology is its self-healing capability. When the resin surface experiences minor damage, the affected area can be restored by applying heat at a specified temperature for a short period. This repair mechanism helps maintain component performance, reduces premature replacement, and extends the operational life of composite structures.
The material also introduces a new approach to thermoset composite recycling. Traditional thermosetting CFRPs cannot be reshaped after curing because the resin permanently hardens and does not soften upon reheating. Teijin's newly developed resin system, however, becomes processable within a controlled temperature range after molding, allowing used composite parts to be reformed through processes such as compression molding and reused in new applications.
In addition, the company has developed a low-impact carbon fiber recovery process. Rather than relying on prolonged high-temperature treatment exceeding 400 C to burn away the resin, the new composite can be immersed in a specially formulated chemical solution that selectively decomposes the resin matrix. This approach enables long carbon fibers to be recovered more efficiently while significantly reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.
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The development was supported in part through Japan's Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) Building a Circular Economy System, administered by the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (CSTI) and implemented by the Environmental Restoration and Conservation Agency.
Teijin plans to begin supplying development samples in 2028 while continuing research in collaboration with universities, research institutes, and industrial partners. The company is targeting applications in aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, and other sectors where lightweight construction, durability, and sustainability are increasingly important.
Looking ahead, Teijin intends to optimize the technology for commercial production by refining material formulations, component design, and recycling processes while establishing a broader supply chain with industry partners. The company is also seeking joint development opportunities to accelerate commercialization and expand adoption of the technology across multiple industries.
The new CFRP aligns with Teijin's long-term strategy of reducing the environmental footprint of composite materials while delivering high-performance solutions that support a more circular and resource-efficient manufacturing ecosystem.
Source: Teijin Carbon | Blog
