TESTING OF COMPOSITE MATERIALS USED IN WIND TURBINE BLADES

This book presents experimental research on glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) composites used in wind turbine blade manufacturing. The research investigates material behavior for various fiber orientations through ASTM-compliant mechanical testing (tensile, compression, shear), including exposure to extreme environments (immersion in normal, salt water and liquid nitrogen). Material constants, crack propagation in CT specimens, and fracture toughness were determined. SEM analysis highlighted fiber failure zones, supporting the assessment of structural performance under real-world operating conditions.