Material Moves Wind Turbine Blades Toward Recyclability

Researchers have demonstrated the feasibility of thermoplastic resin and validated its structural integrity on a thermoplastic composite blade. The blades are currently manufactured using thermoset resin, which requires more energy and manpower in the manufacturing facility and the end product often ends up in landfills. Switching to thermoplastic resin would make wind turbine blades more recyclable and can also enable longer, lighter-weight, and lower-cost blades.