Overview
ISO 19374:2026 defines a comprehensive designation system for recycled carbon fibres (rCF), focusing on their identification and classification. Developed by ISO, this standard is essential for manufacturers, suppliers, and users of recycled carbon fibres used in polymer composites. By providing a systematic approach to designating rCF based on key properties and attributes, this standard supports consistent communication, facilitates material selection, and enhances traceability across global supply chains.
This designation system differentiates various types of recycled carbon fibres primarily by their tensile modulus of elasticity and tensile strength. These mechanical properties are vital for determining the suitability of rCF for specific composite applications. The standard also enables the inclusion of additional data such as source, physical form, sizing, and optional end-use requirements, offering a robust foundation for tailored specifications.
Key Topics
-
Standardized Designation Format: ISO 19374:2026 introduces a clear structure for recycled carbon fibre identification, consisting of up to five modular data blocks. Each block addresses key characteristics-including source material, matrix type, recovery process, product form, fibre length, sizing information, and mechanical properties.
-
Mechanical Properties: Emphasis is placed on defining rCF types by their ranges of tensile modulus and tensile strength, standardized in accordance with established ISO methods. This supports accuracy and repeatability in performance assessments.
-
Data Blocks Explained:
- Block 1: Origin of recycled fibre (e.g., dry rCF, post-industrial, post-consumer) and matrix type (thermoplastic, thermoset, or none)
- Block 2: Recovery process, fibre form (milled, chopped, long, continuous), and fibre length
- Block 3: Sizing information and compatibility (thermoplastic, thermoset, or unspecified)
- Block 4: Ranges of tensile modulus and tensile strength
- Block 5 (Optional): Extra requirements or specifications as agreed by parties
-
Customizability and Traceability: The system allows for additional property specification, enabling designers and suppliers to communicate unique requirements and trace rCF back to source characteristics.
Applications
The ISO 19374:2026 designation system is crucial in diverse sectors utilizing recycled carbon fibres in composites, such as:
- Automotive manufacturing: For lightweight, durable components
- Aerospace and aviation: Where performance-critical composite parts benefit from rCF
- Construction and infrastructure: Reinforcement in polymer concrete and structural materials
- Sporting goods: Sustainable, high-strength fibres in equipment
- Electrical applications: Overhead conductors and insulative components
The designation system enables efficient specification and sourcing of recycled carbon fibres that meet necessary mechanical and physical requirements for each use-case, aiding in compliance with corporate sustainability initiatives and circular economy goals.
Related Standards
ISO 19374:2026 references and is complemented by various other international standards, including:
- ISO 6989: Textile fibres - Determination of length and length distribution of staple fibres
- ISO 11566:1996: Carbon fibre - Determination of the tensile properties of single-filament specimens
- ISO 19350: Recycled carbon fibre - Determination of tensile strength distribution and interfacial shear strength of single filament embedded in matrix polymer
These related standards offer test methods for the accurate characterization of recycled carbon fibres, ensuring that properties stated in the designation system are reliable and globally consistent.
Recycled carbon fibre designation standards like ISO 19374:2026 are indispensable for advancing the use of sustainable composite materials worldwide, supporting industry partners in traceability, material performance, and environmental objectives.