Electromagnetic techniques in carbon fibre and carbon fibre composites manufacturing: A review

Abstract

The intensifying global energy and environmental challenges urgently call for advanced materials characterized by low carbon emissions and sustainable development to meet this growing demand. Carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (CFRP) are increasingly favored across various sectors due to their exceptional lightweight and high-strength properties. However, traditional production and recycling processes for CFRP are hampered by high energy consumption and environmental pollution, which impede their progress toward sustainability. To address these issues, this review concentrates on the emerging technologies that promise to significantly reduce industrial energy consumption and emissions, particularly electromagnetic field-driven techniques. These methods can enhance every stage of the CFRP lifecycle, from precursor preparation and interfacial construction to rapid composite fabrication and efficient recycling. This paper first outlines the distinct advantages of these emerging technologies, followed by a discussion of their specific applications and recent advancements in CFRP production. Finally, it provides an in-depth analysis of the industrial challenges and future opportunities for broader application. We anticipate that electromagnetic field-driven technologies will establish a new paradigm in composite manufacturing, and as science and technology progress, these methods will be instrumental in fostering the green manufacturing of CFRP and supporting sustainable practices across multiple domains.