Scalable β-Aminoester-Based Covalent Adaptable Networks for Wind Turbine Blade Composites

Wind turbine blades pose a major recycling challenge due to their complex composition of thermoset polymers embedded in fiber-reinforced composites. This study presents a cost-effective and scalable approach using covalent adaptable networks based on β-aminoester curing agents for epoxy resins, specifically tailored to meet the requirements of the wind turbine blade industry. The formulation offers low mixed viscosity (<100 mPa·s) and customizable pot life of up to more than 5 h and provides glass transition temperatures of above 75 °C and tensile stiffness exceeding 2.8 GPa. Furthermore, the successful reshaping of glass fiber-reinforced composites, produced by vacuum-assisted resin infusion, and the feasibility of chemically degrading the polymer matrix with acetic acid have been demonstrated. The herein-presented approach holds promise for advancing sustainable practices in wind energy infrastructure.