Feasibility of Thermoplastic Composite BladesCX(s) Applied: B3.6, A9Date: 05/25/2010Location(s): MaineOffice(s): Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Golden Field Office
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
May 25, 2010
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CX(s) Applied: B3.6, A9
Date: 05/25/2010
Location(s): Maine
Office(s): Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Golden Field Office
The University of Maine proposes to use federal funds to determine the feasibility of using thermoplastic polymer composites to manufacture wind turbine blades. Current practices for manufacturing wind turbine blades use thermoset matrices that are time consuming and labor intensive. This project will involve laboratory characterization of different thermoplastic composite systems for wind turbines; evaluate potential manufacturing methods for thermoplastic composite blades; evaluate potential automation technologies to be used in the manufacturing of thermoplastic composite blades; and project management and reporting.