Carbo4Power Project: New Generation of Offshore Turbine Blades with Intelligent Architectures of Hybrid, Nano-enabled Multi-materials via Advanced Manufacturing

The presentation focuses on advancing sustainable solutions in the energy and transport sectors through innovative research in lightweight, high-strength composite materials towards circular economy. Emphasis is also given on establishing recycling strategies to tackle the challenges associated with composite material waste.  To illustrate recent advancements, the Carbo4Power project will be showcased as a case study, as successfully developed and demonstrated innovative offshore turbine blades for wind and tidal energy, achieving advancements in materials, manufacturing, and performance. Key innovations include sustainable 3R resin formulations, nano-enabled resins for lightning protection, nanoenabled fibre sizing solutions, graphene-based resistive inks for de-icing and advanced adhesives with DoD solutions to improve recyclability. Multi-functional coatings demonstrated increased durability, hydrophobicity, and drag reduction. Digital models  developed and applied, optimized various blade components, while successful validation of demo blades confirmed the effectiveness of 3R composites, SHM systems, and advanced manufacturing methods, resulting in significant cost reductions and improved production efficiency.