Things like the tri-phase upgrade and high-end drop modules stop being useful after a while. How about being able to scrap them into "reclaimed scrap parts" or something similar. These parts could then be used, either through a mission, the CT lab or even a new base structure to "build" new structures or modules.

The total cost would be higher than the rewards, so say it'd take 5 tri-phase upgrades to make an identical artifact upgrade.

For example, It'd cost 5 reclaimed scrap parts to make a +3 artifact, +150 population upgrade for a space elevator. You can scrap tri-phase upgrades for 1 RSP, and (as an example) Continuum Parsers for 5 RSP.

Artifacts this could apply to:
Tri-Phase upgrades
ANY module that currently gives an insignificant amount of CTP when scrapped
Continuum Parser
Pretty much all base drops.
Base crates themselves - scrap or open?

This could lead to new artifacts being able to be made.

But couldn't that defeat the purpose of some of the upgrades (e. the Relay Tower to Trelith Tower upgrade) being limited in number?

perhaps this could be applied to a new base module thats used to construct new buildings/modules/artifacts, etc... looks like we're gonna be needing something soon at the rate bases are advancing.