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Add to CartGlobal Recycled Carbon Fiber Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Type;
Chopped Recycled Carbon Fiber and Milled Recycled Carbon Fiber.By Source;
Aerospace Scrap, Automotive Scrap, and Others.By End-Use Industry;
Automotive & Transportation, Consumer Goods, Sporting Goods, Industrial, Marine, Aerospace & Defense, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market was valued at USD 169.47 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 374.64 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12.0%.
The global recycled carbon fiber market has emerged as a crucial sector within the broader composite materials industry, driven by increasing environmental consciousness and sustainability concerns across various manufacturing sectors. Carbon fiber itself is renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and durability, making it indispensable in industries ranging from aerospace and automotive to wind energy and sports equipment. However, the conventional production of carbon fiber involves significant energy consumption and carbon emissions, prompting a shift towards more sustainable practices.
Recycled carbon fiber presents a promising solution to these environmental challenges. It involves the reclamation and processing of carbon fiber waste or end-of-life composite materials, diverting them from landfills and reducing the overall carbon footprint associated with their disposal. This recycling process typically includes the extraction of carbon fibers from composite materials through mechanical or chemical methods, followed by purification and reprocessing into usable forms for various applications.
The market for recycled carbon fiber is witnessing robust growth due to several key factors. Environmental regulations and policies advocating for reduced carbon emissions and waste management drive industries to adopt sustainable practices, including the use of recycled materials. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of recycled carbon fiber compared to virgin carbon fiber encourages its adoption across industries looking to balance performance requirements with economic feasibility.
Industries such as automotive and aerospace are particularly notable adopters of recycled carbon fiber, leveraging its lightweight properties and potential cost savings without compromising on performance standards. In automotive manufacturing, for instance, recycled carbon fiber composites can enhance fuel efficiency and reduce vehicle weight, contributing to lower emissions over the lifecycle of the product. Similarly, in aerospace, where stringent safety and performance standards prevail, recycled carbon fiber finds applications in components like interior panels and secondary structures.
As technological advancements continue to improve the efficiency and quality of recycled carbon fiber production, the market is expected to expand further. Innovations in recycling processes, such as improved fiber recovery rates and enhanced fiber quality, are driving down costs and broadening the scope of applications. Furthermore, collaborations between industry stakeholders, research institutions, and government bodies are fostering a supportive ecosystem for the development and adoption of recycled carbon fiber technologies.
In conclusion, the global recycled carbon fiber market represents a pivotal intersection of environmental responsibility and industrial innovation. As industries increasingly prioritize sustainability and seek to reduce their environmental impact, recycled carbon fiber offers a compelling solution with substantial growth potential across diverse sectors. The ongoing evolution of recycling technologies and growing market acceptance underscore its role as a sustainable alternative within the composite materials landscape, poised to shape the future of manufacturing in a more environmentally conscious era.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market Recent Developments
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In August 2023, Carbon Conversions and Joby Aviation entered into a partnership to help Joby Aviation meet federal aviation regulations and maintain its environment-friendly status by recycling its scrap fiber.
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In April 2022, Gen 2 Carbon Limited announced the development of a new product under the G-TEX product range. G-TEX 60 gsm can be processed with any resin system. It is expected to serve the automotive & transport, aerospace, and wind energy sectors.
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In March 2022, Gen 2 Carbon Limited entered into a partnership with Deakin University to promote the development of carbon fiber recycling in Australia.
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In June 2021, Procotex acquired ELG UK’s short carbon fiber business to produce innovative and sustainable products.
Segment Analysis
In the type segment, the market is divided into Chopped Carbon Fiber and Continuous Carbon Fiber. Chopped Carbon Fiber is the dominant segment, widely used in various applications due to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. This form of recycled carbon fiber is typically employed in industries requiring lower mechanical strength but where lighter materials are still necessary, such as in automotive parts, construction materials, and consumer goods. Continuous Carbon Fiber, although more expensive, offers superior strength and is used in high-performance applications like aerospace and sports equipment. This type of recycled fiber is increasingly gaining traction as the demand for lightweight, high-strength materials continues to rise in these industries.
The source segment includes Post-Consumer Waste and Post-Industrial Waste. Post-Industrial Waste refers to carbon fiber waste generated during the manufacturing process, such as trimmings and scrap material, which can be recycled into high-quality carbon fibers. This source is more prevalent due to its controlled nature and consistent fiber quality. Post-Consumer Waste, which comes from end-of-life products like decommissioned aircraft, vehicles, and sporting goods, is a growing source as the need for recycling and sustainable practices becomes more prominent. The growing focus on reducing landfill waste and promoting circular economies is driving increased attention toward recycling post-consumer carbon fiber.
In the end-use industry segment, the market is divided into Automotive, Aerospace & Defense, Sports & Recreation, Wind Energy, Construction, and Other Industries. The Automotive sector is a major consumer of recycled carbon fiber due to its demand for lightweight materials that contribute to fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Aerospace & Defense also utilizes recycled carbon fiber, where high-strength-to-weight ratios are essential for aircraft components and military applications. In Sports & Recreation, recycled carbon fiber is used in the production of high-performance equipment such as bicycles, tennis rackets, and fishing rods. The Wind Energy industry also benefits from recycled carbon fiber, particularly in the manufacturing of turbine blades, where strong yet lightweight materials are crucial for efficiency. The Construction industry increasingly uses recycled carbon fiber in concrete reinforcement and other building materials to improve durability and reduce the environmental impact of construction activities.
The geography segment divides the market into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East & Africa. North America and Europe are leading regions for the recycled carbon fiber market, driven by strong regulatory frameworks promoting sustainability, significant investments in carbon fiber recycling technologies, and growing awareness of environmental issues. Asia Pacific is witnessing rapid growth, particularly in countries like China and Japan, due to their large manufacturing industries, including automotive and aerospace, which increasingly adopt recycled materials for cost efficiency and sustainability. Latin America and Middle East & Africa are also seeing growth in recycled carbon fiber demand, albeit at a slower pace, as awareness around the benefits of recycling and sustainability in industry expands.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market has been segmented by Type, Source, End-Use Industry and Geography.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, Segmentation by Type
The Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market has been segmented by Type into Chopped Recycled Carbon Fiber and Milled Recycled Carbon Fiber.
Chopped recycled carbon fiber is produced by cutting or chopping carbon fiber scraps into short segments. These fibers retain a significant portion of their original mechanical properties, making them suitable for various applications such as automotive parts, aerospace components, and sporting goods. The demand for chopped recycled carbon fiber is fueled by its cost-effectiveness compared to virgin carbon fiber and its ability to enhance the mechanical properties of composite materials.
On the other hand, milled recycled carbon fiber involves the process of grinding carbon fiber scraps into fine particles. This type of recycled fiber is typically used in applications where the material's specific properties, such as conductivity and lightweight characteristics, are critical. Industries utilizing milled recycled carbon fiber include electronics, construction, and energy sectors, where lightweight and durable materials are essential.
Both chopped and milled recycled carbon fiber contribute significantly to reducing the environmental impact of carbon fiber production. They help divert waste from landfills and minimize the energy-intensive processes associated with manufacturing virgin carbon fiber. As regulations on carbon emissions and waste disposal tighten globally, the demand for recycled carbon fiber is expected to continue growing, driven by both regulatory compliance and industry initiatives towards sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the market for recycled carbon fiber, encompassing both chopped and milled variants, is poised for robust growth in the coming years. As manufacturers seek to meet sustainability goals without compromising on performance, recycled carbon fiber presents a compelling solution across various industrial sectors, fostering innovation and environmental responsibility in composite material applications.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, Segmentation by Source
The Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market has been segmented by Source into Aerospace Scrap, Automotive Scrap and Others.
Aerospace scrap, including end-of-life aircraft components and manufacturing waste, represents a substantial source of recycled carbon fiber. The aerospace industry's stringent quality requirements for lightweight, strong materials make carbon fiber an ideal choice, and recycling these materials helps mitigate the environmental impact of disposal while offering cost-effective solutions.
Similarly, automotive scrap contributes significantly to the recycled carbon fiber market. As automakers strive to meet fuel efficiency standards and reduce vehicle weight, carbon fiber composites offer a lightweight alternative to traditional materials like steel and aluminum. Recycling carbon fiber from end-of-life vehicles and manufacturing scraps supports the automotive industry's sustainability goals and promotes circular economy practices.
Beyond aerospace and automotive sectors, other sources of recycled carbon fiber include wind turbine blades, sporting goods, and various industrial applications where composite materials are utilized. These sectors generate considerable waste that can be repurposed through recycling processes, contributing further to the market's growth.
Key players in the recycled carbon fiber market are investing in technology advancements to improve the efficiency and scalability of recycling processes. Innovations in sorting, shredding, and reclaiming carbon fiber from composite materials are expanding the market's potential and driving down costs, making recycled carbon fiber increasingly competitive with virgin materials.
In conclusion, the global recycled carbon fiber market is poised for robust growth as industries seek sustainable alternatives to conventional materials. With aerospace and automotive sectors leading the charge, and advancements in recycling technologies continuing to evolve, recycled carbon fiber is set to play a pivotal role in the future of composite materials, offering both environmental benefits and economic advantages to manufacturers worldwide.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, Segmentation by End-Use Industry
The Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market has been segmented by End-Use Industry into Automotive & Transportation, Consumer Goods, Sporting Goods, Industrial, Marine, Aerospace & Defense and Others.
In the automotive and transportation sector, manufacturers are turning to recycled carbon fiber to reduce vehicle weight, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and meeting stringent emissions regulations. This trend is particularly crucial as the industry shifts towards electric and hybrid vehicles, where lightweight materials are essential for extending range and performance.
Consumer goods represent another key market for recycled carbon fiber, where it is used in products ranging from electronics to furniture. The demand here is driven by consumers' growing preference for sustainable and eco-friendly materials, prompting manufacturers to integrate recycled carbon fiber into their product designs.
Sporting goods manufacturers are also adopting recycled carbon fiber to produce lightweight and durable equipment, catering to athletes' needs for high-performance gear while reducing environmental impact.
Industrial applications span a wide range of uses including infrastructure, construction, and machinery components. Recycled carbon fiber offers cost-effective alternatives to traditional materials without compromising on performance, making it increasingly attractive in industrial settings.
In the marine industry, recycled carbon fiber's resistance to saltwater corrosion and lightweight properties make it ideal for applications such as boat hulls, reducing both weight and environmental footprint compared to conventional materials.
Aerospace and defense industries continue to be major consumers of carbon fiber, with recycled variants finding applications in aircraft structures, satellites, and military equipment. The stringent performance requirements and focus on reducing lifecycle costs drive the adoption of recycled carbon fiber in these sectors.
Overall, the growth of the global recycled carbon fiber market is propelled by technological advancements in recycling processes, increasing environmental regulations, and the growing recognition of sustainability benefits across various industries. As manufacturers and consumers alike prioritize environmental responsibility, recycled carbon fiber is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of materials in industrial and consumer applications worldwide.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
In North America, increasing awareness about sustainable practices and stringent environmental regulations are driving the demand for recycled carbon fiber. Industries such as aerospace, automotive, and sports goods are adopting recycled carbon fiber due to its cost-effectiveness and reduced environmental impact compared to virgin carbon fiber.
Europe is another prominent region in the recycled carbon fiber market, with countries like Germany, the UK, and France leading in adoption. Government initiatives promoting recycling and sustainability goals, along with the presence of major aerospace and automotive manufacturers, are boosting market growth. The region's well-established infrastructure for recycling and composite manufacturing also supports the market's development.
In Asia Pacific, rapid industrialization and infrastructure development in countries like China, Japan, and India are fueling demand for recycled carbon fiber. The automotive sector in particular is a significant consumer, driven by increasing production of electric vehicles and lightweight materials. Moreover, initiatives to reduce carbon emissions and improve fuel efficiency are pushing manufacturers towards sustainable alternatives like recycled carbon fiber.
The Middle East and Africa are emerging markets in the recycled carbon fiber sector, albeit at a slower pace compared to other regions. Growing awareness about environmental sustainability and diversification efforts in industries such as oil and gas are expected to drive future growth in this region.
Latin America is also showing potential for growth in the recycled carbon fiber market, supported by increasing investments in renewable energy and infrastructure projects. Countries like Brazil and Mexico are likely to witness rising adoption of recycled carbon fiber, driven by their expanding automotive and aerospace sectors.
Overall, the period from 2020 to 2030 is expected to see robust growth in the global recycled carbon fiber market across these diverse geographical regions, driven by regulatory pressures, technological advancements, and increasing awareness among industries and consumers about the benefits of sustainable materials.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Cost-effectiveness
- Growing automotive production
- Increasing tire manufacturing
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Rising demand for eco-friendly products -The global recycled carbon fiber market is experiencing significant growth driven by increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products across various industries. With a growing emphasis on reducing carbon footprints and promoting circular economy practices, recycled carbon fiber has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional materials like virgin carbon fiber.
One of the primary drivers of this market expansion is the rising awareness among consumers and businesses regarding environmental conservation and the need to mitigate the impacts of industrial processes. Recycled carbon fiber offers several advantages over its virgin counterpart, including lower production costs, reduced energy consumption, and minimized waste generation. These factors have contributed to its adoption in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, sports and leisure, and wind energy.
Environmental benefits, recycled carbon fiber maintains comparable mechanical properties to virgin carbon fiber, making it suitable for various high-performance applications. Manufacturers are increasingly investing in research and development to improve the quality and consistency of recycled carbon fiber materials, further driving market growth.
Government regulations and policies promoting sustainability and resource efficiency are bolstering the market for recycled carbon fiber. Incentives such as tax credits and subsidies for companies adopting green technologies encourage the use of recycled materials in manufacturing processes.
The global recycled carbon fiber market is poised for continued expansion as industries strive to meet stringent environmental standards and consumer preferences for sustainable products. Innovations in recycling technologies and increasing investments in infrastructure are expected to further enhance the competitiveness and scalability of recycled carbon fiber in the global marketplace. As a result, the market is projected to witness robust growth in the coming years, offering significant opportunities for stakeholders across the value chain.
Restraints:
- Quality variations in recovered carbon black
- Limited awareness and acceptance
- Competition from traditional carbon black
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Uncertainty in feedstock availability -The global recycled carbon fiber market is currently navigating significant challenges, primarily stemming from uncertainty surrounding feedstock availability. Carbon fiber, renowned for its lightweight and high-strength properties, has increasingly become a preferred material in various industries including aerospace, automotive, and sporting goods. However, the production of virgin carbon fiber is resource-intensive and expensive, prompting the industry to explore recycled alternatives as a sustainable solution.
Despite the growing interest in recycled carbon fiber, the market faces hurdles related to the inconsistent supply of feedstock. Recycled carbon fiber is sourced primarily from end-of-life products or manufacturing waste, making its availability unpredictable and subject to external factors such as regulatory changes, industry trends, and economic conditions. This variability in feedstock availability poses challenges for manufacturers and investors looking to scale up production and stabilize supply chains.
The quality and performance characteristics of recycled carbon fiber can vary depending on the source material and the recycling process used. While advancements in technology have improved the quality of recycled fibers, achieving consistency comparable to virgin carbon fiber remains a significant goal for the industry.
These challenges, stakeholders are focusing on innovation in recycling technologies and establishing robust supply chain strategies. Collaborations between recyclers, manufacturers, and research institutions are essential to develop efficient recycling processes and ensure a reliable supply of high-quality recycled carbon fiber. Additionally, regulatory support and incentives that promote the recycling of carbon fiber materials could help mitigate uncertainties and foster market growth.
The global recycled carbon fiber market holds immense potential driven by sustainability goals and the increasing demand for lightweight and eco-friendly materials. Addressing the uncertainty in feedstock availability through strategic investments in recycling infrastructure and technology will be crucial in unlocking this potential and driving the market towards a more sustainable future.
Opportunities:
- Expansion in emerging markets
- Collaborations and partnerships
- Innovation in product formulations
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Consumer shift towards sustainable practices -The global market for recycled carbon fiber is experiencing significant growth driven by a fundamental consumer shift towards sustainability across industries. This shift is fueled by increasing awareness of environmental impacts and the need for more eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Recycled carbon fiber offers a compelling solution as it allows industries to reduce their carbon footprint while still benefiting from the material's lightweight and durable properties.
One of the key drivers of this market growth is the automotive industry, where manufacturers are increasingly turning to recycled carbon fiber composites to meet stringent environmental regulations and consumer demands for greener vehicles. These composites offer a viable alternative to traditional materials like steel and aluminum, providing improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions without compromising on safety or performance.
The aerospace sector, there is a growing emphasis on sustainability as aircraft manufacturers seek to minimize the environmental impact of their operations. Recycled carbon fiber is being adopted for use in aircraft components, offering weight savings and enhanced fuel efficiency, which are critical factors in reducing overall carbon emissions from air travel.
Beyond automotive and aerospace, other industries such as wind energy, sporting goods, and construction are also embracing recycled carbon fiber due to its versatility and sustainability benefits. Companies are investing in research and development to further enhance the mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness of recycled carbon fiber materials, making them more competitive with virgin carbon fiber.
Government initiatives and regulations promoting sustainable practices are further driving the adoption of recycled carbon fiber. Incentives for recycling and stringent environmental policies are encouraging industries to explore and implement eco-friendly alternatives like recycled carbon fiber in their manufacturing processes.
The global recycled carbon fiber market is poised for continued expansion as companies across various sectors recognize the economic and environmental advantages of incorporating sustainable materials into their products. Innovations in recycling technologies and increased collaboration between industry stakeholders are expected to further accelerate market growth, making recycled carbon fiber a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing in the years to come.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market include.
- Toray Industries, Inc.
- ELG Carbon Fibre Ltd.
- SGL Carbon
- Carbon Conversions Inc.
- Carbon Fiber Recycling, Inc.
- Shocker Composites LLC
- Procotex Corporation SA
- Alpha Recyclage Composites
- Carbon Fiber Remanufacturing
- Vartega Inc.
- Carbon Conversions and Joby Aviation
- Gen 2 Carbon Limited
- Procotex
- CATACK-H
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Source
- Market Snapshot, By End-Use Industry
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
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Cost-effectiveness
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Growing automotive production
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Increasing tire manufacturing
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Rising demand for eco-friendly products
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- Restraints
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Quality variations in recovered carbon black
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Limited awareness and acceptance
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Competition from traditional carbon black
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Uncertainty in feedstock availability
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- Opportunities
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Expansion in emerging markets
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Collaborations and partnerships
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Innovation in product formulations
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Consumer shift towards sustainable practices
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- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Chopped Recycled Carbon Fiber
- Milled Recycled Carbon Fiber
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, By Source, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Aerospace Scrap
- Automotive Scrap
- Others
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, By End-Use Industry, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Automotive & Transportation
- Consumer Goods
- Sporting Goods
- Industrial
- Marine
- Aerospace & Defense
- Others
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Recycled Carbon Fiber Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Toray Industries, Inc.
- ELG Carbon Fibre Ltd.
- SGL Carbon
- Carbon Conversions Inc.
- Carbon Fiber Recycling, Inc.
- Shocker Composites LLC
- Procotex Corporation SA
- Alpha Recyclage Composites
- Carbon Fiber Remanufacturing
- Vartega Inc.
- Carbon Conversions and Joby Aviation
- Gen 2 Carbon Limited
- Procotex
- CATACK-H
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market