Discussion paper on managing composite blade waste

A sustainable process for dealing with wind turbines at the end of their service life is needed in order to maximize the environmental benefits of wind power from a life cycle approach. Most components of a wind turbine such as foundation, tower, components of the gear box and generator are already recyclable and treated accordingly. Nevertheless, wind turbine blades represent a challenge due to the materials used and their complex composition. The objective of this research note is to provide an overview of the different methods used for sectioning and recycling wind turbine blades as well as practical examples and experiences from research and industry projects. Important sources have been obtained from researchers, the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), operators and maintainers (O&Ms), waste handlers and those that use the recyclates from blade waste.