Authors
Krzysztof Bajer
Łukasiewicz Research Network – Institute for Engineering of Polymer Materials and Dyes (REC-WIND project leader),
krzysztof.bajer@impib.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
ewa.langer@impib.lukasiewicz.gov.pl
Aim of the project
The aim of the project is to develop solutions in the form of functional additives and composite materials with the addition of waste from used wind power plants. Recycling and production of new materials technologies will be developed. The project will be demonstrated by the construction of boards that can be used in modular construction.
Short description of the problem addressed by this project
Lack of solutions for the comprehensive management of wind farms after their use ends is a challenge for sustainable development policy. Currently, there are no technologies allowing for the complete management of used rotor blades, which means that a significant amount of them is landfilled. A small part of blades is reused, most often as elements of urban architecture. The techniques developed so far are characterized by high energy consumption or environmental pollution, which is why they are not implemented on an industrial scale. The project will enable the development of innovative technologies for recycling and thermal processing of waste polymer materials (Fiber Reinforced Polymer) from used wind farms (offshore and onshore).
Main results and achievements
Innovative project results:
(a) products – functional epoxy-glass additive (semi-finished product), powder fillers (semi-finished product), new polymer composites (semi-finished products), composite board with thermal and electrical insulating properties, also demonstrating soundproofing qualities (product);
(b) technologies – recycling technology of used rotor blades from wind power plants and production technology of new polymer composites.
Conclusion
There are currently approximately 2.5 million tons of wind turbine composite materials deposited around the world that are not recycled. If acceptable ways to recycle these types of materials are not developed, it is expected that by 2050, 40 million tons of composites will end in landfills. As part of the project, the consortium members undertake to solve the above-mentioned problem by developing technologies for recycling and processing waste polymer materials from decommissioned wind turbines. It is assumed that the innovative final products of the project, i.e., functional additives and a composite boards with unique functional properties will compete successfully with solutions currently available on the market.
Acknowledgments
Acknowledgments to consortium members:
- Łukasiewicz – Warsaw Institute of Technology
- Łukasiewicz – Institute of Aviation
- Łukasiewicz – Institute of Heavy Organic Synthesis “Blachownia”
Acknowledgments to project business partner: Elektrorecykling S.A.