Challenges and Opportunities for Composite Manufacturing from a Sustainable Perspective

The white paper aims to identify the challenges and opportunities in the manufacturing of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. It provides an in-depth exploration of the evolving landscape of sustainable composite manufacturing, addressing the urgent need for environmentally friendly alternatives across various industrial sectors in terms of materials, processes, and applications. Beginning with an introduction to the context and vision of composite manufacturing, the paper emphasizes the growing importance of sustainable practices. A comprehensive overview of next-generation materials and their applications is presented, with a focus on the use of sustainable and bio-derived resources such as natural fibers, recycled materials, and green matrices. Similarly, it explores both traditional and emerging manufacturing processes, including circular economy-based production, out-of-autoclave processes, and recycling technologies. In line with the information presented, the white paper also includes recent studies conducted or currently being carried out by members of the SIMPCo group (Sustainable and Innovative Manufacturing Processes for Composites), presenting their main findings and highlighting the remaining open challenges. SIMPCo is a thematic group within A.I.Te.M. (The Italian Manufacturing Association). Finally, the paper concludes with a summary of the key points discussed, offering future perspectives and recommendations for sustainable composite manufacturing practices.