14 November 2024
On 6 November, the British Marine technical team attended the Composites UK Subgroup meeting focusing on sustainability. The meeting was attended by 28 representatives of the major producers and researchers in the field of fibre reinforcement and resins.
There was an update from SM8RT on future use of fibres produced from Flax and Hemp that can reduce 70% of greenhouse gas emissions in the production of FRP products, although mainly aimed at thermoplastic use. There was also information from AMIC (Advanced Manufacture Innovation Centre) in Belfast, regarding funding opportunities and future project options that can be assisted by the centre.
The BM technical team then led a group in a breakout session looking at options for projects that could be funded by a consortium of Composites UK members. It was felt that emphasis should be placed on finding market ready uses for recycled composite material, especially the lower grade materials such as glass-reinforced polyester products. It was also felt that although the industry needs to focus on future development, there is a major issue with large legacy objects that contain multiple materials with end-of-life boats becoming a particular issue.
The group were pleased to confirm that after lobbying on behalf of BM and Composites UK members, that products from the glass and ceramics sectors will not be in scope of the UK CBAM from 2027. This is good news for the UK composites sector as it aligns the scope of the new UK CBAM with the already established EU CBAM. BM would like to thank its members for providing valuable input to the industry response to the consultation earlier this year.
The meeting concluded with a valuable presentation by Petra Inghelbrecht from Owens Corning showing initial work that the company has carried out developing scalable solutions for separation and recycling of glass fibres.
For further information or advice stemming from the meeting, British Marine members can contact the technical team by emailing Technical@britishmarine.co.uk