Wind power is already an essential part of our energy supply. As the sector matures, many wind turbines are reaching the end of their lifespan after years of producing clean energy. Others are becoming less efficient and should be replaced. This is a process known as repowering. In both scenarios, the wind blades must be recycled. New materials are now emerging that simplify this task.
In this article:
Wind blade recycling process
The good news is 90% of wind turbinesIncluding the tower and nacelle, it can be easily recycled after reaching the end of its useful life. After dismantling the structure, the metal parts can be reused. However, the main challenge lies in recycling wind blades. Built to last for decades, they are made from composite materials such as resin and fiberglass.
At the current recycling factory, mechanical, thermal, or chemical methods It is used to recover raw materials and give them a second life. This may include grinding, heating, or using chemicals to process the material.
Another option the wind industry is considering is Reusing cutlery as urban furniture structures such as canopies and bridges.
biomass substitutes
Recent efforts aim to make wind blade recycling easier by taking a different approach. In other words, replacing the conventional resin with the next resin. biodegradable alternatives. This research recently scienceAs a result, a material called PECAN, which has properties similar to synthetic resin but is derived from biomass, was born.
Scientists at the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) developed this new resin from bio-based sugars. This new resin provides the same strength as the materials used in traditional blades. One concern was whether PECAN would deform and affect the aerodynamic properties of the blade, but testing confirmed its strength.
Additionally, this resin can undergo mild chemical treatments and can be recovered and reused indefinitely. In laboratory tests, researchers were able to disassemble the prototype blade. in just 6 hourspromote circular economy Principle of wind energy.
The team also conducted the following tests 9 meter long bladepromising results have been shown regarding the durability of the material. However, it is still too early to predict how it will hold up under real-world conditions.
Blades are reborn as sneakers
Wind blade without biodegradable resin Materials can be recycled through chemical, thermal, or mechanical separation processes. A striking example of this is the conversion of blades from the ACCIONA Energía wind farm in Aybar, Navarra into the soles of special edition sneakers for a famous fashion brand.
In this case, the resin from the blade was crushed and pulverized into powder. The powder was then mixed with rubber and the sole was molded using heat compression. You can read more about this fascinating initiative on this page.
Finally, beyond recycling wind blades, we recently highlighted a new technology that allows solar panels to be recycled by up to 99%. To stay up to date with the latest trends in renewable energy, subscribe to our newsletter below.
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