The composite structure and materials of the turbine blades represent specific challenge. This composite design is necessary to boost the performance of wind blades by allowing lighter and longer blades. 2.5 million tons of composite material are in use in the wind sector globally. The main technology for recycling composite waste is through cement co-processing.

 

In order to sustainably improve the recyclability of the blades, the solution is to find an alternative to thermosetting composites, which cannot be recycled. The envisaged solution: Use thermoplastic composites. Also resistant and light, they have the advantage of being able to be remelted after use to make new materials.

 

Results 

Today, a network of innovative companies recognized at the world level, supported by research laboratories, has all the skills required for the deployment of sustainable thermoplastic wind turbine blades.

 

The general objective of this project is to develop sustainable material and production processes for the manufacturing of wind energy blades.The use of this resin versus its thermosetting counterparts introduces cost savings due to non-heated tooling, shorter manufacturing cycle times, and recovery of raw materials from the retired part. Because composites parts have high embedded energy, recovery of their constituent materials can provide substantial economic benefit.

 

This project will determine the feasibility at lab scale and pilot scale of recycling composite wind turbine blade components that are fabricated with glass fiber reinforced Elium® thermoplastic resin.