An SMC (Sheeting Moulding Compound) of fibre-glass and orthophthalic polyester has been pyrolysed in a 3.5 dm(3) autoclave for 30 min in a nitrogen atmosphere at 300, 400, 500, 600 and 700 degrees C. Gas yields of 8-13 weight%, liquid yields of 9-16 weight% and solid residues of 72-82 weight% were obtained. The suitability of the pyrolysis process for recycling SMC is discussed. The characteristics, compositions and possible ways of reusing the liquid and gaseous fractions are presented. The solid pyrolysis residue has been recycled in another thermoset composite (Bulk Moulding Compound, BMC) and its mechanical properties have been compared with those of virgin BMC. The main conclusion is that pyrolysis can be an appropriate method for recycling thermoset polymeric composites such as SMC. The pyrolysis gas fraction can be sufficient to provide the energy requirements of the process plant. The pyrolysis liquids have high gross calorific values (36.8 MJ kg(-1)) and are non-polluting liquid fuels; about 40 weight% of such liquids could be used as petrols, and the remaining 60% could be mixed with fuel oils. The solid pyrolysis residue can be recycled in BMC with no detrimental effect on the BMC mechanical properties. Concerning temperature, it has been concluded that 400-500 degrees C are the most suitable temperatures for recycling SMC by pyrolysis.