Recycling of shredded composites from wind turbine blades in new thermoset polymer composites

As the energy produced from wind increases every year, a concern has raised on the recycling of wind turbine blades made of glass fibre composites. In this context, the present study aims to characterize and understand the mechanical properties of polyester resin composites reinforced with shredded composites (SC), and to assess the potential of such recycling solution. A special manufacturing setup was developed to produce composites with a controlled content of SC. Results show that the SC in the composites was well distributed and impregnated. The composite stiffness was well predicted using an analytical model, and fibre orientation parameters for strength modelling were established. The stress-strain curves revealed composite failure at unusual low strain values, and micrographs of the fracture surface indicated poor adhesion between SC and matrix. To tackle this problem, chemical treatment of SC or use of an alternative resin, to improve bonding should be investigated.