(46h) Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) in Automobiles: Achieving Net-Zero Emission and Circular Economy

The urgent challenge of climate change highlights the need of sustainable solu- tions, especially in the field of transportation, greenhouse gas emissions, largely from burning fossil fuels like carbon dioxide (CO₂) are a major concern [1]. In the United States, transportation contributes to 97% of the sector’s global warming potential [2]. In recent years, regulations were enacted, imposing CO₂ emission performance standards for new passenger cars and vans globally. These standards aim to achieve a reduction of emissions by 2032, as well as incentive mechanisms to promote the adoption of zero and low-emission vehicles worldwide [3]. So there has been a push for stricter regulations on vehicle emissions. To meet these regulations, car manufacturers are increasingly using such materials that make vehicles lighter [4]. Plastics and polymer composites, which are already widely used in car interiors, exteriors and lighting, are now being used in other parts of the vehicles [5]. However, these mate- rials contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and plastic waste, which go against the goal of achieving net-zero emissions [6]. In response, many manufactur- ers are aiming to produce vehicles with net-zero emissions which requires exploration of alternative options for vehicle materials. While there are various approaches to decrease tailpipe emissions, the utilization of alternative lightweight materials or processes that result in lighter end products is often seen as a pivotal solution. As individual materials approach their performance limits, there is growing interest in combining the advantages of different materials into a single application. One of the materials, that will aid in our goal is carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) which is recognized for its exceptional lightweight properties which can reduce weight and also hold promise for enhancing vehicle efficiency [7]. However, these composites present significant challenges, from assembly to recyclability at their end of their life cycle, in addition to generally being more expensive than conventional materials such as steel and aluminum. Adding to it, there are uncertainties surrounding the energy consumption of CFRP production and recycling and limited knowledge regarding fuel consumption benefits. In response to these pressing environmental challenges, this work aims to demonstrate a commercially viable engineering solution that mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with regulatory requirements for improved vehicle fuel efficiency. Central to this approach is the development of a road map that not only aims for net-zero emissions within the automobile industry, but also finds circular and cost-effective solutions.