Characterisation of End-of-Life Wind Turbine Blade Components for Structural Repurposing: Experimental and Analytic Prediction Approach

Philipp Johst (), Moritz Bühl, Alann André (), Robert Kupfer, Richard Protz, Niels Modler and Robert Böhm
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Philipp Johst: Faculty of Engineering, Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK Leipzig), 04277 Leipzig, Germany
Moritz Bühl: Faculty of Engineering, Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK Leipzig), 04277 Leipzig, Germany
Alann André: Chalmers Industriteknik, 412 58 Göteborg, Sweden
Robert Kupfer: Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
Richard Protz: Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
Niels Modler: Institute of Lightweight Engineering and Polymer Technology, Dresden University of Technology, 01307 Dresden, Germany
Robert Böhm: Faculty of Engineering, Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK Leipzig), 04277 Leipzig, Germany

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 17, 1-24

Abstract: The problem of end-of-life (EoL) fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) wind turbine blades (WTBs) poses a growing challenge due to the absence of an integrated circular value chain currently available on the market. A key barrier is the information gap between the EoL condition of WTB components and their second-life application requirements. This study addresses this question by focusing on the spar cap, which is an internal structural component with high repurposing potential. A framework has been developed to determine the as-received mechanical properties of spar caps from different EoL WTB models, targeting repurpose in the construction sector. The experimental programme encompasses fibre architecture assessment, calcination processes and mechanical tests in both longitudinal and transverse directions of three different WTB models. Results suggest that the spar caps appear to retain their strength and stiffness, with no evidence of degradation from previous service life. However, notable variation in properties is observed. To account for this, a prediction tool is proposed to estimate the as-received mechanical properties based on practically accessible parameters, thereby supporting decision-making. The results of this study contribute to enabling the repurposing of EoL spar cap beams from the wind energy sector for applications in the construction sector.

Keywords: fibre-reinforced polymer; composite; wind turbine blades; end of life; circular economy; repurpose (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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