Abstract: A simple and efficient process is provided for disposing of easily airborne carbon fibers by subjecting them to an aqueous solution of an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal hypohalogenite at an elevated temperature for a period of time sufficient to substantially destroy the fibrous configuration of said fibers. In a preferred embodiment, carbon fibers are contacted with a solution of sodium hypochlorite (approximately 5 to 6 percent active chlorine concentration by weight based on the weight of the solution) at a temperature of between about 50.degree. and about 60.degree. C. for between about 1 and about 12 hours.