Nahed Hermassi presents reinforced recycled plastic parts to reduce the carbon footprint in West Africa

Nahed Hermassi, a researcher at the National Polytechnic Institute of Brittany, has developed reinforced recycled plastic parts, offering a low-impact structural alternative in CO₂. This innovation, presented in 2025, uses recycled polyamide 6, allowing it to compete with virgin plastics while reducing plastic pollution in West Africa.

Nahed Hermassi's thesis focuses on plastic recycling, a major environmental issue. By using recycled polyamide 6 (PA6), particularly sourced from fishing nets, this research aims to reduce the carbon footprint of products while improving their mechanical properties. The questions raised concern the optimization of the use of recycled plastics in various sectors.

The results show that reinforcing parts made from recycled PA6 with continuous fibers allows for competitive mechanical properties compared to virgin plastics. Techniques such as thermocompression and injection overmolding have been explored, showing potential to reduce material waste while improving the durability of composites.

This research has strategic implications for decision-makers, highlighting the opportunity to develop recycled composite materials to reduce the carbon footprint in the industry. It is recommended to support innovation and fund research projects to encourage the adoption of these sustainable technologies.

« « Composites made from recycled PA6 can compete with traditional materials in terms of strength and durability, » says Nahed Hermassi. »

« « This research paves the way for sustainable solutions for decision-makers, promoting access to the knowledge necessary to combat plastic pollution, » emphasizes the Lektaris team. »