Bill > S1432

This bill, the Carbon Fiber Recycling Act of 2015, mandates that the Secretary of Energy conduct a comprehensive study on recycled carbon fiber, which is a strong, lightweight material often used in industries like aerospace and automotive. The study will examine the technologies involved in recycling carbon fiber, including production waste, and assess the potential savings in energy and economic benefits compared to using new, or "virgin," carbon fiber. Congress recognizes that producing new carbon fiber is very energy-intensive and costly, while recycled carbon fiber requires significantly less energy and can lead to substantial cost reductions. The Secretary will consider various factors in the study, such as the amount of recycled material needed for economic viability, any obstacles to recycling and using recycled carbon fiber, potential financial incentives, the best uses for recycled carbon fiber, and the environmental benefits like reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary to consult with the aviation and automotive industries to develop a demonstration project for recycling carbon fiber and authorizes $10 million for carrying out the provisions of this Act.