SEGULA Technologies has set up the Z-WasTEK project with the aim of developing technologies for producing sustainable carbon composites.

Currently, parts made from composite materials have one major drawback: they are difficult to recycle and repair. The Z-WasTEK project, subsidised by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation and the Basque Government, addresses this problem by combining the use of a “3R” resin (which enables materials to be reprocessed, repaired and recycled) and the development of digital programmes to define the best way of repairing parts.

For SEGULA, the project consists of two main points: firstly, the design of software for inspecting curved parts through the acquisition, management and interpretation of sensors. By performing a high-precision scan on curved parts, this software makes it possible to obtain information on points showing cracks and, after repair, to check whether the finish is correct.

SEGULA has also developed a 3R composite repair technology based on the creation of a digital twin.  By capturing information about a part, the simulation (digital twin) makes it possible to define the best action for repairing it with 3R resin.

By acting locally and specifically, the system developed guarantees not only repair, but also the responsible use of materials and a reduction in the time and cost of materials.

The project’s main points of innovation are as follows:

– The development and optimisation of a competitive and sustainable repair process for damaged composite parts.

– The development and optimisation of a process for upgrading raw materials from production waste to recover both the 3R resin and the composite’s load-bearing capacity with the same initial quality at a competitive cost.

– The development of new high-performance, more durable and competitive 3R (removable, repairable and recyclable) composites based on high-quality upgraded carbon fibres.

The project supports the circular economy and the use of low-impact, environmentally sustainable materials.

This cutting-edge technology covers a wide range of applications and can be used in mobility sectors such as aeronautics, automotive and rail.