Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP) Recycling Market Outlook (2023 to 2033)

The global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling market value is predicted to reach USD 482.0 million in 2023 and USD 1.0 billion by 2033. The market is set to witness a robust growth trajectory, with global fiber-reinforced plastic recycling demand likely to rise at 8.0% CAGR.

The global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling sales revenue totaled USD 442.2 million at the end of 2022. For the assessment period, the target market is anticipated to create an absolute $ growth of USD 557.0 million.

Glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) segment is expected to hold a prominent share of the market during the assessment period. This is attributable to rising GFRP waste due to extensive usage of GFRPs across several sectors.

According to Future Market Insights (FMI), glass-fiber reinforced plastic segment is projected to expand at 7.9% CAGR through 2033.

Key Market Shaping Factors:

  • Growing demand from end-use sectors such as building & construction, transportation, and industrial is driving the global FRP recycling market
  • Increasing usage of fiber-reinforced plastics and the consequent rise in FRP waste are expected to uplift fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling demand
  • Escalating popularity of recycled fiber-reinforced plastic materials across a wide range of sectors is set to boost global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling sales revenues
  • Implementation of stringent regulations on composite disposal is likely to create growth opportunities for fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) companies
  • Development of new fiber-reinforced plastic recycling technologies might foster market growth through 2033
  • Growing environmental and sustainability concerns due to increasing FRP waste is anticipated to create a high demand for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling through 2033
  • Rising awareness about the potential environmental and economic benefits of FRP recycling is likely to improve global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling market share
  • Evolving waste management practices to create new growth avenues for the target market

Over the years, usage of fiber-reinforced plastics has increased sharply and the trend is likely to continue during the assessment period. This is due to the attractive features of FRPs including their high strength, lightweight, temperature resistance, and corrosion resistance.

However, the rising adoption of these strong materials is creating an increasing amount of FRP waste. This in turn is putting fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling techniques and technologies into limelight.

Fiber-reinforced plastic recycling is the process of recovering and reusing materials from composite structures such as FRPs. It involves breaking down the composite structure, separating fibers from the polymer matrix, and then processing them for reuse in novel products.

Multiple recycling techniques are being used by end users for recycling FRPs. These include thermal/chemical recycling, mechanical recycling, and incineration & co-incineration.

Adoption of FRP recycling not only aids to reduce waste & conserve resources but also contributes to more sustainable manufacturing practices and a circular economy.

Rising awareness about environmental issues and growing need for reducing plastic waste are prompting companies to use recycled FRP materials. Usage of these materials can help divert FRP waste from landfills, thereby reducing their negative impact on the environment.

Increasing usage of recycled FRP materials coupled with rising adoption of multiple fiber-reinforced plastic recycling techniques is expected to boost the target market.

Enforcement of new regulations and laws for waste management is acting as a catalyst triggering growth in the global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling industry.

Amid rising environmental concerns, several countries are implementing stricter laws and regulations for plastic waste management and disposal. The new regulations encourage end-use sectors to adopt recycling practices, including FRP recycling.

Countries are also focusing on improving recycling rates to address plastic pollution issues. For instance, the National Recycling Strategy was published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in November 2021 to improve the United States recycling rate to 50% by 2030.

Similarly, shifting consumer preferences towards sustainable and environmentally friendly products is prompting sectors such as construction to adopt recycling practices. By incorporating recycled FRPs into new products, they can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and enhance their eco-friendliness.

Increasing usage of FRP recycling in sports & leisure sector is anticipated to further boost the target market through 2033.

Sports equipment manufacturers employ FRP recycling in the production of sports equipment such as hockey sticks, tennis rackets, etc. They collect used or damaged FRP components and recycle them to create new sports equipment and accessories.

Recycled FRP materials are also being used in structures like seating, swimming pools, and bleachers in certain sports and leisure facilities.

Attributes Key Insights
Estimated Global Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP) Recycling Market Size (2023) USD 482.0 million
Projected Market Value (2033) USD 1.0 billion
Value-based CAGR (2023 to 2033) 8.0%
United States Market CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%

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Historical Performance of Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP) Recycling Sales

The global fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling market exhibited a CAGR of 9.5% CAGR during 2018 to 2022. In 2022, total FRP recycling market size reached USD 442.2 million.

The global demand for fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling is projected to rise at 8.0% CAGR through 2033. It is anticipated to generate an absolute $ growth of USD 557.0 million during the forecast period.

Growing adoption of FRP recycling across sectors such as industrial, building & construction, and transportation is a prominent factor driving the target market forward. Rising awareness about the environmental & economic benefits of FRP recycling coupled with increasing usage of recycled PRP materials is expected to boost the market during the assessment period.

The importance of fiber-reinforced plastic recycling has been rising dramatically during the last few years due to growing environmental concerns. Governments, consumers, and businesses are all concentrating on reducing the environmental impact of plastic by promoting recycling and the use of recycled materials. This, in turn, is creating growth prospects for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling companies.

Recycling fiber-reinforced plastics helps companies in reducing plastic waste and improving their cost savings and resource efficiency. By reusing the fibers and resins, FRP recycling can reduce the need for virgin materials and help to conserve valuable resources.

Continuous advancements in recycling technologies are making it feasible to recycle complex structures such as FRPs. Recycling techniques such as chemical recycling and pyrolysis are being developed and refined to efficiently and cost-effectively process and recover materials from FRPs.

Increasing circular economy initiatives is another key trend impacting fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling demand. This is because recycling fiber-reinforced plastics aligns with circular economy principles by extending the lifespan of FRP materials as well as reducing the need for disposal.

Country-wise Insights

Interesting progression is expected for the fiber-reinforced plastic recycling companies. Several opportunities open up in different countries. However, the United States and China are considered to be highly opportunistic countries in the FRP recycling market. The United States FRP recycling market registered a CAGR of 9.4%, while that of China registered 9.3% during 2018 and 2022.

Based on the valuation, China is likely to upkeep its dominance with USD 188.8 million by 2033.

The table below shows the country-wise market valuation for 2033, wherein the fiber-reinforced plastic recycling market in China sees a bright prospect.

The forecast period shows a twist in the tale, with the market in the United States catching up to match the pace of the market in China.

Country United States
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.4%
Market Value (2033) USD 174.4 million
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%
Country United Kingdom
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.1%
Market Value (2033) USD 6.8 million
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%
Country China
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.3%
Market Value (2033) USD 188.8 million
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%
Country Japan
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.2%
Market Value (2033) USD 150.0 million
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.8%
Country South Korea
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 8.7%
Market Value (2033) USD 53.9 million
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%
Nikhil Kaitwade
Nikhil Kaitwade

Principal Consultant

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Rising Usage of Recycled FRPs in Construction Sector Fueling Demand in the United States

The United States fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling market value is predicted to reach USD 174.4 million by 2033. It is forecast to create an absolute $ growth of USD 93.2 million over the projection period.

Overall demand for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling in the United States is set to rise at 7.9% CAGR through 2033. Historically, the United States fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling industry witnessed a CAGR of 9.4%.

Growth in the market is driven by the increasing usage of recycled fiber-reinforced plastic in the thriving building & construction sector and implementation of stringent regulations on composite disposal.

The United States building & construction sector is witnessing robust growth due to increasing spending. As per the United States Census Bureau, construction spending totaled around USD 1,938.4 billion in the United States in June 2023.

Expansion of the building and construction sector is creating a high demand for both new FRPs and recycled FPRs, as well as encouraging adoption of FRP recycling techniques. This is expected to boost the target market during the assessment period.

Fiber-reinforced plastic recycling is helping the building & construction sector to reduce waste, promote usage of recycled materials, and address sustainability concerns. Leading construction companies in the United States are widely using FRP recycling to recover fibers and materials. These recycled FRP materials are then used for making new construction products such as panels, reinforcing bars, beams, facades, etc.

Growing Focus on Reducing Solid Waste Pushing Market Expansion in China

China is anticipated to emerge as a highly lucrative market for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling companies during the assessment period. This is attributable to the rising focus on reducing solid waste and the growing adoption of recycled FRP materials in the industrial and transportation sectors.

China fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling market is projected to reach a valuation of USD 188.8 million by the end of 2033. Over the assessment period, FRP recycling demand in China is expected to increase at 7.9% CAGR.

High cost of new FRPs and growing environmental concerns are promoting sectors such as industrial, building & construction, and transportation to use recycled materials. As a result, the popularity of recycled fiber-recycled plastic materials is growing rapidly in China.

In the building and construction sector, recycled FRP fibers are being used to reinforce concrete and other building materials. Recycled FRP material can also be used in 3D printing processes to create intricate & customized parts.

Similarly, China-based auto companies are showing an inclination towards using recycled FRP materials for manufacturing automotive components such as interior panels. High adoption of recycled FRP materials in these applications is expected to create a high demand for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling across China.

Another key factor expected to uplift fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) recycling demand in China is the enforcement of new regulations. Over the years, agencies such as the China Ministry of Ecology and Environment have introduced several regulations, standards, and laws to reduce waste. Consequently, new amendments are being made to curb solid waste.

For instance, an amendment to China’s solid waste statute was approved by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress in April 2020. These regulations, laws, and amendments are creating a conducive environment for the expansion of the FRP recycling market in China.

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Category-wise Insights

The analysis shows high reliance of end users on glass fiber recycling process over carbon fiber recycling. During the historical period, glass fiber recycling registered a 9.4% CAGR.

Top Segment (Product) Glass-Fiber Reinforced
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.4%
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.9%

Concerns regarding the degraded quality of recycled fibers are likely to limit adoption. This aspect is likely to limit the pace of the market during the forecast period.

Top Segment (Product) Thermal/Chemical Recycling
Historical CAGR (2018 to 2022) 9.2%
Projected CAGR (2023 to 2033) 7.7%

Glass-fiber Reinforced Plastic Segment to Create Lucrative Revenues for the Market

Based on product, the global fiber-reinforced plastic recycling industry is categorized into carbon fiber reinforced plastic and glass-fiber-reinforced plastic. Among these, glass fiber reinforced plastic segment is expected to generate significant revenues in the market.

Rise in glass-fiber reinforced plastic waste due to increasing usage of glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) across multiple sectors is driving the growth of the target segment.

Glass-fiber reinforced plastic segment is predicted to expand at 7.9% CAGR through 2033, in comparison to 9.4% CAGR registered during the historical period. In recent years, there has been a rise in usage of glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) or fiberglass-reinforced plastic across several sectors. This is due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, lightweight, versatility, and corrosion resistance.

Owing to high usage of GFRPs in sectors such as marine, construction, aerospace, and transportation, glass-fiber reinforced plastic waste is increasing rapidly. This, along with implementation of stringent regulations regarding waste disposal, is creating a high demand for fiber-reinforced plastic recycling.

Companies are using multiple recycling technologies to recycle glass-fiber reinforced plastic. The adoption of FRP helps them to significantly reduce waste, comply with stringent regulations, and create new products from recycled materials.

Thermal/Chemical Recycling Remains the Highly Preferred FRP Recycling Technique

Based on recycling technique, the global market is categorized into thermal/chemical recycling, incineration & co-incineration, and mechanical recycling. Among these, thermal/chemical recycling remains the popular technique for recycling FRPs.

The target segment expanded at a CAGR of 9.2% during the historical period. Over the assessment period, thermal/chemical recycling segment is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 7.7%.

Thermal/chemical recycling has become an ideal means of managing fiber-reinforced plastics that are difficult to recycle through traditional methods. Adoption of thermal and chemical recycling methods allows users to reduce the environmental impact and promote a more sustainable approach to managing FRPs.

Thermal recycling, also referred to as pyrolysis, involves the decomposition of FRPs through high temperatures in absence of oxygen. This recycling method breaks down complex polymers into simpler molecules, which can then be used for making new products.

Chemical recycling, on the other hand, involves the use of chemical processes to break down FRP waste into its constituent compounds. This recycling type can produce higher-quality materials than other methods. Growing usage of thermal and chemical methods for recycling FPRs is expected to help the target segment retain its dominance in the market during the forecast period.

Fiber-reinforced Plastic Recycling remains a Fiercely Competitive Landscape

Leading fiber-reinforced plastic recycling companies listed in the report include Carbon Conversions, Toray Industries Inc., Eco-Wolf Inc., Gen 2 Carbon Limited, Aeron Composite Pvt. Ltd, Procotex, Carbon Fiber Recycle Industry Co. Ltd, Ucomposites A/S, Carbon Fiber Recycling, Conenor Ltd, Karborek Recycling Carbon Fibers, Global Fiberglass Solutions, MCR (Mixt Composites Recyclables), neocomp GmbH, Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials GmbH, and Vartega Inc.

These players are launching new fiber-reinforced plastic recycling technologies, programs, and facilities to stay ahead of the competition. They are also showing a keen inclination towards employing strategies. These include acquisitions, alliances, partnerships, mergers, and agreements to increase sales and strengthen their global footprint.

Recent Developments in the Fiber-reinforced Plastic Recycling Market

  • In June 2023, a recycling process for glass fiber-reinforced PPS (polyphenylene sulfide) resin waste from injection molding processes was established by Toray Resins Europe GmbH. The company created this process by using proprietary compounding technology.
  • In May 2021, a new carbon fiber recycling program for 3D filament was launched by Vartega Inc. and Braskem.
  • In December 2021, Procotex Corps’ subsidiary Apply Carbon expanded its presence by investing in a new manufacturing facility for recycled carbon fiber.
  • In January 2020, Toray Industries, Inc. completed the acquisition of Alva Sweden AB to strengthen its presence.
  • In December 2022, the basic technology for recycling continuous carbon fiber was developed by Asahi Kasei in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology, Tokyo University of Science, and Kitakyushu College.
  • In 2023, Carbon Conversions, Inc. and C12 Technology partnered to innovate a new groundbreaking technology and material for developing the world’s first environmentally friendly rotational molded carbon fiber products.

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Estimated Market Value (2023) USD 482.0 million
Projected Market Value (2033) USD 1.0 billion
Anticipated Growth Rate (2023 to 2033) 8.0% CAGR
Historical Data 2018 to 2022
Forecast Period 2023 to 2033
Quantitative Units Revenue in USD Million/Billion and CAGR from 2023 to 2033
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Volume Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis
Segments Covered Product, Recycling Technique, End Use, and Region
Regions Covered North America; Latin America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; South Asia and Pacific; East Asia; and the Middle East & Africa
Key Countries Covered United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Nordic, Russia, Poland, China, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand, Japan, GCC countries, North Africa, South Africa, and others.
Key Companies Profiled Aeron Composite Pvt. Ltd; Carbon Conversions; Carbon Fiber Recycle Industry Co. Ltd; Carbon Fiber Recycling; Conenor Ltd; Eco-Wolf Inc.; Gen 2 Carbon Limited; Global Fiberglass Solutions; Karborek Recycling Carbon Fibers; MCR (Mixt Composites Recyclables); Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials GmbH; neocomp GmbH; Procotex; Toray Industries Inc.; Ucomposites A/S; Vartega Inc.

Fiber-reinforced Plastic (FRP) Recycling Market Segmentation

By Product:

  • Glass-fiber Reinforced Plastic
  • Carbon-fiber Reinforced Plastic

By Recycling Technique:

  • Thermal/Chemical Recycling
  • Incineration & Co-incineration
  • Mechanical Recycling

By End Use:

  • Industrial
  • Transportation
  • Building & Construction
  • Sports & Leisure

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • East Asia
  • South Asia and Pacific
  • Middle East and Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

How big was the global industry in 2022?

The global industry was valued at USD 442.2 million in 2022.

What is the estimated value of the global market in 2023?

The global market value is expected to reach USD 482.0 million in 2023.

What is the projected valuation for the global industry in 2033?

The worldwide industry is predicted to reach USD 1.0 billion by 2033.

What value CAGR did the market exhibit from 2018 to 2022?

The global market exhibited a CAGR of 9.5% from 2018 to 2022.

At what rate will global demand increase through 2033?

Global demand is expected to rise at 8.0% CAGR through 2033.

Which product segment will witness higher growth?

Glass fiber-reinforced plastic segment is expected to thrive at 7.9% CAGR through 2033.

Which is the highly lucrative market for manufacturers?

Thriving at 7.9% CAGR, China is likely to remain a highly lucrative market.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Market Background
	4. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast, 2023 to 2033
	5. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Product
		5.1. Glass-Fiber Reinforced Plastic
		5.2. Carbon-Fiber Reinforced Plastic
	6. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Recycling Technique
		6.1. Thermal/Chemical Recycling
		6.2. Incineration & Co-Incineration
		6.3. Mechanical Recycling
	7. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By End Use
		7.1. Industrial
		7.2. Transportation
		7.3. Building & Construction
		7.4. Sports & Leisure
	8. Global Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Region
		8.1. North America
		8.2. Latin America
		8.3. Western Europe
		8.4. Eastern Europe
		8.5. South Asia and Pacific
		8.6. East Asia
		8.7. Middle East and Africa
	9. North America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	10. Latin America Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	11. Western Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	12. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	13. South Asia and Pacific Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	14. East Asia Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	15. Middle East and Africa Market Analysis 2018 to 2022 and Forecast 2023 to 2033, By Country
	16. Key Countries Market Analysis
	17. Market Structure Analysis
	18. Competition Analysis
		18.1. Aeron Composite Pvt. Ltd
		18.2. Carbon Conversions
		18.3. Carbon Fiber Recycle Industry Co. Ltd
		18.4. Carbon Fiber Recycling
		18.5. Conenor Ltd
		18.6. Eco-Wolf Inc.
		18.7. Gen 2 Carbon Limited
		18.8. Global Fiberglass Solutions
		18.9. Karborek Recycling Carbon Fibers
		18.10. MCR (Mixt Composites Recyclables)
		18.11. Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials GmbH
		18.12. neocomp GmbH
		18.13. Procotex
		18.14. Toray Industries Inc.
		18.15. Ucomposites A/S
		18.16. Vartega Inc.
	19. Assumptions & Acronyms Used
	20. Research Methodology
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