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Repurposing decommissioned wind turbine blades: A circular economy approach to sustainable resource management and infrastructure innovation

Author

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  • Ramaswamy, Nagesh
  • Joshi, Bhupendra
  • Song, Gangbing
  • Mo, Y.L.

Abstract

Wind energy's rapid growth has led to a significant challenge with decommissioned wind turbine blades (DWTBs), whose complex composite materials are difficult to recycle, and these DWTBs often end up in landfills. This paper proposes a sustainable solution by repurposing DWTBs as structural components for Highway Overhead Sign Structures (OSSs). The high strength-to-weight ratio and durability of DWTBs offer substantial economic, environmental, and structural benefits. Economic analysis shows a 73 % reduction in raw material costs for OSS, with significant savings in steel and concrete. Environmentally, repurposing DWTBs will reduce CO2 emissions by 242 tons per 40-foot span structure, supporting global net-zero goals. The feasibility is validated through technical assessments, design adaptations, regulatory considerations, and experimental demonstration. By integrating DWTBs into infrastructure projects, this study advances circular economy practices and provides a viable solution for managing wind turbine blade waste, conservation of resources, and ultimately contributing to sustainable infrastructure development.

Suggested Citation

  • Ramaswamy, Nagesh & Joshi, Bhupendra & Song, Gangbing & Mo, Y.L., 2025. "Repurposing decommissioned wind turbine blades: A circular economy approach to sustainable resource management and infrastructure innovation," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 215(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:rensus:v:215:y:2025:i:c:s1364032125003028
    DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2025.115629
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    Cited by:

    1. Jianling Li & Juan He & Zihan Xu, 2025. "Sustainability and Material Flow Analysis of Wind Turbine Blade Recycling in China," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(10), pages 1-30, May.

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