A research paper
Abstract
Wind turbine blades are increasingly recognized as a source of debris contributing to
environmental pollution, particularly through leading edge erosion.
This paper examines the quantities of microplastics, PFAS, PFOA, epichlorohydrin (ECH), and
bisphenol A (BPA) released from both onshore and offshore wind turbines, considering two
scenarios of degradation: a conservative estimate of 1% and a more aggressive estimate of 5%.
The implications of these figures for environmental monitoring and operator accountability are
discussed, alongside a prediction of an environmental tipping point for the UK based on these
estimates.
The paper also contextualizes these figures against the UK market share for repair epoxy and
coatings, referencing average repair quantities and frequency.