Given the high value of carbon fibre and the anticipated rise in production volumes of composites based on it, it is hardly surprising that recycling has become a key issue. In commercial aeroplanes, the use of carbon fibre-reinforced plastics (CFRPs) has grown rapidly in recent years: 20 years ago, these accounted for only 10% (by volume) of the aircraft's body; in the latest models - notably the Airbus A380 and the Boeing 787 Dreamliner-they are used to make more than 50% of the body. CFRPs are also being used more than ever before in military aircraft.
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