FACC takes recycling to a new level of performance with innovation

FACC is not only one of the world’s leading companies in the aircraft industry, but also occupies a leading position in technology developments. Because innovation is an integral part of the DNA of the group with headquarters in Ried. The same applies to sustainability: Flying should not only be safe and comfortable, but also as efficient and resource-saving as possible. FACC’s development engineers are working on this mission in a wide variety of projects and international research teams.

FACC places a particular focus on so-called thermoplastic composite materials in the development and production of aircraft components. These innovative materials have enormous potential for the next generations of aircraft: they are not only extremely durable and robust, but also very light compared to traditional materials. And every kilogram of aircraft weight saved means reduced fuel consumption. In addition, composite materials can be produced in a shorter time – this also saves energy and reduces costs.

FACC has now joined forces with 13 European partners to jointly develop solutions for efficient recycling of these high-tech materials. The continued use and recycling of materials and raw materials after the end of a product’s lifespan pays directly into resource conservation and sustainability.

The research team is working on a special digital system that stores real-time information about the quality, performance and history of a component, which ultimately flows into the recycling and reuse processes. This information opens up completely new possibilities for reusing composite materials in a wide variety of application areas – far beyond the aircraft industry.

“Our goal is CO2-neutral production by 2040. With the joint research project, we are developing tools and methods that raise the circular economy in aviation to a completely new performance dimension and have a sustainable effect far beyond the industry,” reports CEO Robert Machtlinger . “The high-tech materials that were originally developed for use in the aviation industry are also of great interest to many other industries. With our research initiative, we are making a significant contribution to greater sustainability.”