Recabo-Crete Method

Reusing CFRP offcuts as short fibers to reinforce concrete and reduce rebar usage

POINT

  • Demonstrates performance equal to or better than polypropylene short fibers

    Offcuts of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) used in the hydrogen tanks of the fuel cell vehicle MIRAI are recycled as short fibers for concrete reinforcement. With just two-thirds the amount required for polypropylene short fibers, they deliver equal or superior compressive strength and toughness, making the concrete more resistant to cracking under external force.

  • CO2 emissions reduced to one-fifteenth

    Comparison of CO2 emission intensity per unit

    The recycled short fibers for concrete reinforcement reduce CO2 emissions to one-fifteenth compared to new carbon fibers, and to one-ninth compared to conventional reinforcing steel.

  • Contributing to a circular economy

    Circular economy

    In anticipation of increased hydrogen tank production as the fuel cell vehicle market expands, Obayashi Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation will continue developing this technology and promote its application in various concrete structures. The goal is to implement a full-scale production system by fiscal 2026 and eventually apply the technology to 30,000 m³ of fiber-reinforced concrete annually.