A recent study explores the potential of using Raw-Crushed Wind-Turbine Blade (RCWTB) as a partial substitute for aggregates in Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC).

The research indicates that incorporating RCWTB into SCC can effectively maintain both flowability and compressive strength, suggesting a promising avenue for future recycling efforts of wind-turbine blades.

The authors focused on selectively crushed wind turbine blade (SCWTB) as an innovative waste material suitable for concrete production.

Statistical analysis at a 95% confidence level confirmed significant effects of all SCC mix design modifications, underscoring the reliability of the findings.

At 28 days, concrete mixtures containing up to 6.0% SCWTB achieved a compressive strength of 45 MPa, although higher SCWTB content led to a decrease in long-term strength.

Scanning electron microscopy revealed good adhesion of SCWTB fibers within the cementitious matrix, which positively influenced the mechanical properties of the concrete.

The optimal water/cement (w/c) ratio for SCC with up to 2% RCWTB was determined to be 0.45, requiring 2.8% superplasticizer relative to the cement mass.

More than 40 SCC mixes were tested to identify the best w/c ratio and superplasticizer content to achieve adequate flowability and compressive strength.

While the incorporation of SCWTB slightly reduced workability due to the fibers' large specific surface area, the mechanical performance remained generally satisfactory.

Concrete mixes with 5% RCWTB were unable to achieve self-compacting properties under any tested conditions.

The study suggests that SCWTB is particularly suitable for applications where compression stresses are predominant, given its favorable mechanical properties.

The findings highlight the significant disposal challenges posed by wind-turbine blades in the growing wind energy sector, emphasizing the need for effective recycling solutions.