LICHEN BLADES

We are rethinking wind turbine blades for a circular economy by designing blades for multiple life cycles, addressing the environmental impact at every stage. Our circular design implements natural materials and automated manufacturing techniques to reduce CO2 emissions; increases the lifetime of blades through nature-inspired solutions in the blade coating; and replaces epoxy with bio-based thermoplastics that enable reshaping in decommissioned blades for new structural applications. Additionally, we aim to catalyze a change in the industry through the development of circular business models and optimizing the value chain. PhD Researchers involved: Deniz Sayinbas - Additive Manufacturing of Natural Fibre Composite Materials Natalia Sofia Guevara Sotelo - Erosion-resistant Living and Architected Materials Israel A. Carrete - Design for Sustainability Julia G. Smid - Circular Business Models and Value Chains