Sustainable hybrid composites for wind turbine blades: Mechanical and environmental perspectives
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1
Maritime University of Szczecin, ul. Wały Chrobrego 1-2, 70-500 Szczecin, Poland
2
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Lublin University of Technology, ul. Nadbystrzycka 36, 20-618, Lublin, Poland
3
Faculty of Computer Science and Telecommunications, Maritime University of Szczecin, ul. Wały Chrobrego 1-2, 70-500 Szczecin, Poland
Publication date: 2026-05-15
Corresponding author
Michał Rogala
Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Lublin University of Technology, ul. Nadbystrzycka 36, 20-618, Lublin, Poland
Adv. Sci. Technol. Res. J. 2026; 20(8)
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ABSTRACT
This study presents the results of an investigation into hybrid polymer composites with an epoxy matrix reinforced with glass and jute fibres, evaluated for potential application in wind turbine blades. The objective of the study was to combine the high mechanical strength of glass fibres with the flexibility and environmental advantages of natural fibres. Three types of laminated composites were fabricated: a glass fibre–reinforced composite, a natural fibre–reinforced composite (jute), and a hybrid laminate with a glass–jute–glass stacking sequence.
Mechanical testing was conducted in accordance with ISO 527-4 and ISO 148-1 standards. The results indicated that the glass fibre composite exhibited the highest tensile strength (390 MPa). Jute fibre composite demonstrated the greatest elongation at break (4.1%), although with lower tensile strength (198 MPa). Hybrid laminate demonstrated intermediate mechanical properties, achieving a tensile strength of 240 MPa, an elongation at break of 3.4%, and an impact strength of 9.6 J/cm².
The results indicate that hybridization of the reinforcing materials improves energy dissipation and delays the onset of failure, thereby enhancing resistance to dynamic load. These findings suggest that hybrid glass–jute composites may be a promising material solution for blades of small wind turbines, combining mechanical performance with improved environmental sustainability.