NREL Develops New Recyclable Wind Turbine Blade Method
Researchers at the National renewable energy Laboratory (NREL) have found a way to manufacture wind blades using bio-derivable materials that can be recycled chemically, eliminating the need for old blades to end up in landfills. The new resin, called PECAN, is made from bio-derivable resources and performs as well as traditional thermoset resins used in wind blades. Additionally, the PECAN blades can be recycled using mild chemical processes, allowing for the components to be reused multiple times.
The research, published in the journal Science, involved building a prototype 9-meter blade to demonstrate the feasibility of using the PECAN resin. The chemical recycling process developed by the researchers can completely break down the blades in just six hours, making it an efficient and sustainable approach to wind blade manufacturing. This innovative method is a major step towards creating a circular economy for energy materials.
The study was a collaborative effort involving researchers from different NREL research hubs, including the National Wind Technology Center. The team proposed recovery and reuse strategies for each component of the PECAN blades, ensuring a sustainable end-of-life strategy for wind turbine blades.
The research into the PECAN resin began with the goal of creating a recyclable wind blade without compromising performance. The composites made from the PECAN resin held their shape, withstood weatherization tests, and could be manufactured within the same timeframe as traditional wind turbine blades. This research was jointly funded by the U.S. Department of Energy through its Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office and Bioenergy Technologies Office.
NREL is the primary national laboratory for renewable energy research and is operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy LLC on behalf of the Department of Energy.
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Michael Thompson earned his degree in Agricultural Engineering from Purdue University in the USA, specializing in precision agriculture and smart farming technologies. His work revolves around the development of automated systems that increase farm efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Michael is now a senior engineer at a leading agri-tech company, where he designs innovative solutions for modern agriculture.