Environmental and Sustainability Studies Program
Date of this Version
12-12-2022
Document Type
Article
Citation
Environmental Studies Undergraduate Student Thesis, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 2022
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review to identify recycling options for wind turbine blade waste. Wind energy is a rapidly growing energy source due to its renewability and accessibility. However, the turbines that produce this energy have blades that must be replaced throughout the turbine’s lifetime. The standard disposal method of decommissioned blades is the landfill. However, problems are arising within states as landfills are being overrun by the wind turbine blades once they reach their end-of-life. Conducting this study aims to provide a list of recycling options and provide an evaluation of each with suggestions on how to utilize them going forward. This study also aims to provide awareness on the issue of wind turbine blade waste. The results of this study concluded that cement co-processing was the best method for recycling wind turbine blade waste going forward because of its low environmental impact, cost, readiness, and quality. If this recycling method were to be implemented throughout the United States, a large amount of waste could be redirected from landfills.
Included in
Environmental Education Commons, Natural Resources and Conservation Commons, Sustainability Commons
Comments
Copyright 2022, Awinita Bunner