The rapid expansion of wind energy over the last 40 years is leading to an increasing number of discarded wind turbine blades as they reach their end of their life. Current solutions are low- grade recycling options in which the material loses its value. With that.

This research presents a case study on the structural reuse of wind turbine blades, using an iterative design research approach to explore processes and outcomes.

Previous research has investigated various reuse cases but has been unable to develop a proof of concept for the reuse of curved material. In this case study, the research explores the potential of utilizing the blade material’s unique geometric and material properties by developing a demonstrator prototype to show its feasibility.

This case study researches the process of matching wind turbine blade (WTB) pieces to create a modular pumptrack. This will be done by calculating the material’s strength and finding ways to connect the modules, ensuring form continuity and sufficient tolerances.
In addition, the project ends with the conceptualisation of prototypes and the validation of the geometric and material properties to ensure their suitability for modular pumptrack modules. These modules are designed to be safe for BMX pumptrack events while considering their limitations and opportunities.

To showcase the experiential qualities of the material—such as its aesthetic attributes and associations—to both the industry and the public, the prototypes were presented through a demo pumptrack event hosted within the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) community.

The final section summarizes the outcomes and riding experience of the pumptrack modules, providing insights into reusing wind turbine blade material specific for this use case and other cases.