CIRCUBLADE - circular approach to resource usage based on end-of-life wind turbine blades
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Stiftelsen Chalmers Industriteknik |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 1 754 874 |
| Project duration | September 2022 - October 2024 |
| Status | Completed |
| Venture | Circular and biobased economy |
| Call | Increased resource efficiency for a sustainable industry 2022. |
Important results from the project
The project explored circular solutions for the reuse of end-of-life wind turbine blades (WTB), focusing on logistics, design, manufacturing and a digital tool. The goal has been met through: LCA and market research with municipalities was carried out. A bridge concept was developed with a part of end-of-life WTB. Logistics analysis was carried out. Digital platform was created to catalog blades and provide secure access to data for reuse. Two guides were produced: on circular design and on sustainability benefits of reusing WTBs. A scientific article was published.
Expected long term effects
Results from the project included: LCA ensured environmental viability; a survey of municipalities showed support for products made of recycled WTB material, if they meet conventional standards. A bridge concept was developed with the section of obsolete WTB. Logistics accounted for up to 30% of project costs. Digital platform was created to catalog sheets and provide secure access to data for reuse. Two guides were produced: on circular design and on sustainability benefits of reusing WTBs. The project also developed new contacts, e.g. with an architect office.
Approach and implementation
The project consisted of 5 work packages and the activities included: -Sustainability analysis of proposed concepts -Investigation of how the public perceives new products from EoL wind turbine blades (WTB) -Logistics and transport analysis -Bridge concept and demonstrator; certification process developed -Manufacturing of the concept bridge with a part of EoL WTB -Concept of noise barrier was analyzed -Development of Circular Design guide and "Sustainability guide" to increase awareness of the WTB material -Digital platform for access to WTB data was further developed