Modelling and analysis of jute fiber reinforced epoxy composite in the development of wind blade for low intensity winds

Abstract

Natural fibers show an increasing potential as reinforcement of polymeric composites, representing a promising concurrent to glass and carbon fibers extensively used in the construction of wind turbine blades synthetic fibers recyclability/disposability and high production energy cost have already been discussed in the main turbine producing centres. In particular, the development of wind turbines for low wind speed areas can increase the energy generation potential of regions not originally eligible for the installation of large turbines. This study proposes the evaluation of the use of jute fiber (Corchorus capsularis) reinforced epoxy composite in the construction of S1210 airfoil profile, of a small-scale wind turbine for low wind speed regions, considering the structural parameters, developed incorporating the Classical Laminate Theory (CLT) and Extended Bredt-Batho Shear Flow Theory (EBSFT).In order to raise the elastic properties and enable the use of the failure criteria, the composite blades were characterized according to ASTM standards. The mechanical properties surveyed, together with the elastic parameters of the cross section, torsional stiffness, axial stiffness, GJ 1873.6 N m2, EI 9.47 × 104 N m2, and flexural rigidity, Ely 4.97 × 104 N m2, Elz 1.45 × 106 N m2, respectively, demonstrated the feasibility of using the jute fiber reinforced epoxy composite in the blade construction, evaluated according to the maximum tension failure criterion.

Keywords

• Wind turbine blades
• Classical laminate theory (CLT)
• Extended bredt-batho shear flow theory (EBSFT)
• Jute fiber