A consortium managed by the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) is currently carrying out a research project named DURALEDGE (Durable Leading Edges) to investigate erosion mechanisms and develop new coatings to permanently protect rotor blades. In addition, the consortium aims to develop calculation models to predict edge protection.
Global manufacturers of wind energy systems and coatings are members of the consortium, as is Covestro as a raw materials partner. Covestro is working to develop a raw material for a specialised, robust paint system to increase the service life of rotor blades, while also reducing maintenance expenses and associated costs. One goal in developing future rotor blades is to increase the peak speed at the ends of the blades. The aim is an increase to over 90 meters per second, to improve the performance of wind energy systems.
The DURALEDGE project started on November 1st, 2018 and had a term of three years. It is being funded with 11.7 million Danish Krones (around 1.57 million euros) from the Danish Innovation Fund.