Reutilização adaptativa de pás eólicas: revisão da literatura sobre aplicações e desafios técnicos

Abstract

The decommissioning of wind turbine blades at the end of their service life represents a growing environmental challenge, especially in view of the expansion of wind energy in Brazil and worldwide. These structures are made of composite materials such as glass fibers and polymeric resins, presenting high mechanical strength and low biodegradability, which hinders recycling processes and favors practices such as landfilling or co-processing. In this context, the search for more sustainable disposal alternatives becomes necessary, with adaptive reuse standing out as a strategy aligned with the principles of the circular economy. This study was developed with the objective of evaluating the potential for reusing wind turbine blades as an alternative to conventional disposal. The methodology involved the collection and analysis of data from technical and scientific literature, enabling the identification of recycling technologies, feasibility criteria for reuse, and experiences already implemented in different countries. The results indicate that adaptive reuse has been mainly applied in lower structural complexity uses, such as urban furniture, footbridges, shelters, and architectural elements, contributing to the extension of the material life cycle and the reduction of environmental impacts. However, in Brazil there are still limitations related to the absence of specific regulations, transportation logistics, and the need for more detailed structural assessments. It is concluded that adaptive reuse represents a promising alternative for the sustainable management of waste from wind turbine blades, and the expansion of studies as well as the development of public policies that encourage its application on a national scale are recommended.