Comparative analysis of carbon fibre and glass fibre in blade design

Abstract

This study investigates the performance, environmental impact, and economic viability of single-blade carbon fibre wind turbines compared to traditional three-blade glass fibre designs. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) demonstrates carbon fibre's superior stiffness and vibration properties, while Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations identify optimal aerodynamic performance at specific angles of attack. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) reveals that, despite significantly higher carbon emissions and energy consumption during manufacturing, carbon fibre blades produce fewer SO₂-equivalent emissions. Economically, single-blade carbon fibre turbines present potential cost-efficiency due to reduced maintenance and extended lifespan. However, challenges such as manufacturing energy demands, environmental effects, and cost remain barriers to widespread adoption. These findings underscore carbon fibre’s suitability for applications requiring high mechanical performance and dimensional stability, establishing it as a viable material for advanced wind turbine designs.