Much development work in the field of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) in recent decades has focused mainly on improving mechanical, chemical and thermal properties and on optimizing cost-effective production processes. Within the framework of Composites United e. V. and its industrial members, various joint research projects are now starting which also deal with ecological, economic and circular economy aspects of CMC. These aspects have hardly been investigated so far but are attracting growing interest in politics and industry due to the increasing awareness of environmental impacts. The project team of the CU EcoCeramic collaborative
research project is now focusing on these issues using carbon fiber reinforced silicon carbide (C/C-SiC) as an example to show what the environmental footprint of C/C-SiC manufacturing looks like through the liquid silicon infiltration (LSI) route. On the one hand, the key performance indicators (KPIs) are considered. On the other hand, realistic future scenarios are calculated, such as the use of regenerative process energy or the further development of manufacturing technology. In addition, energy savings trough in manufacturing processes are correlated to their mechanical behaviour. Socalled Pareto-efficient points help to ensure optimal, energy-saving production.