A closed loop recycling system for
decommissioned wind turbine blades
The wind turbine blade disposal issue
The wind energy industry is successful in its contribution to a sustainable energy grid, stable economy, in-demand jobs, cheaper energy costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and more. However, an issue on the horizon threatens the “green” aspect of wind energy: the disposal of an estimated 720,000 tons of termed out wind turbine blades that will be decommissioned over the next 20 years.
After 20-25 years in service, most wind turbine blades are landfilled because there are few reuse or recycling options. Each blade takes up 30-50 yards of landfill space.
Renewablade offers the wind industry a sustainable solution in which wind turbine blades are processed into glass fibers and composite fillers that will be used for new infrastructure products.
How Renewablade will transform the wind energy industry
1. Remove
On-site removal and initial processing of the blades
2. Re-process
Blades will be reprocessed into FRP fibers of various length and composite fillers
3. Re-purpose
FRP Fiber and filler is used in the manufacturing of new infrastructure products for wind & power generation, municipal, and other industrial applications
New, recycled-content products meet industry standards
Renewablade products test in accordance to ASTM standards for fiber reinforced concrete and cement:
ASTM C-1666
Standard Specification for Alkali Resistant (AR) Glass Fiber for GFRC and Fiber-Reinforced Concrete and Cement
ASTM C-1399
Test Method for Obtaining Average Residual-Strength of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
ASTM C-1609
Standard Test Method for Flexural Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete
New product samples made from decommissioned blades
Renewablade’s FRP Fibers and composite fillers can be utilized in new products for several industries. Specific recycled content products for the wind and solar energy industry include trench systems, trench pull boxes, hand holes, box pads, and flat pads.
Other examples of infrastructure products manufactured with FRP Fibers and composite fillers are shown on the right.
Manhole Structures
Cable Trays & Covers
Process Tanks for Copper Refining
Transformer Pads
Utility Boxes