Brothers pioneer steam-powered recycling for sailing composites and beyond
A new recycling method for sailing composites is being developed by Sustainable Extricko, a company founded by brothers Joe Penhaul Smith and Sam Penhaul. The pair, including a former professional sailor with experience in high-performance boatbuilding, aim to cut waste in the maritime industry. Their approach uses high-pressure steam to break down materials without harming fibres or creating excess solvent waste. The company's process, called pressolysis, relies on superheated steam and pressure to separate composite materials into reusable parts. So far, testing has been done in small-scale batch systems, handling around 2 tonnes of material each year. Now, they are redesigning the system to fit inside a modular container, allowing on-site waste processing.
With £500,000 raised in funding, Sustainable Extricko plans to expand beyond sailing. Their goal is to apply the technology to other industries, including aerospace and renewable energy, where composite waste is also a challenge. The method avoids the drawbacks of traditional recycling, which often damages fibres or produces large amounts of solvent waste. By keeping materials intact, the company hopes to make recycling more efficient and sustainable.
Sustainable Extricko's modular system could soon be deployed at waste sites across different sectors. The company's focus remains on scaling up while keeping the process clean and effective. If successful, their method may reduce composite waste in industries far beyond sailing.
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