In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, researchers are turning to innovative solutions to reduce construction’s environmental footprint. A recent study led by Katarzyna Markowska-Lech from the Institute of Civil Engineering at Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW (also known as the Warsaw University of Life Sciences) explores the potential of recycled concrete to reinforce weak subsoil, particularly for wind turbine foundations. The research, published in the journal ‘Buildings’, offers promising insights for the energy sector, where the demand for sustainable and cost-effective construction methods is growing.
The study focuses on a critical challenge in the energy sector: ensuring the stability of wind turbine foundations, especially in areas with weak, stratified subsoil. Traditional methods often rely on newly produced materials, contributing to resource depletion and environmental degradation. Markowska-Lech and her team propose an alternative approach using crushed recycled concrete derived from demolished residential buildings. “By utilizing recycled concrete, we can significantly reduce the consumption of natural resources and minimize construction waste,” Markowska-Lech explains.
The research involved creating mixtures of recycled concrete with varying grain sizes, including up to 30% fine fraction. These materials were then used to construct columns supporting circular wind turbine foundations. The subsoil in question was characterized by low bearing capacity and high compressibility, presenting a real-world challenge for foundation design.
The findings were encouraging. The calculation results showed that the bearing capacity conditions for all foundations were met within similar safety factor ranges, regardless of the turbine’s power output. However, the study also revealed that foundation deformations increased with turbine size and bending moments, with recycled aggregates exhibiting nearly twice the deformation of recycled concrete. “While recycled aggregates can provide comparable load-bearing performance under low loading conditions, recycled concrete offers superior stability for larger turbines,” Markowska-Lech notes.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As wind energy continues to expand, the need for sustainable and efficient construction methods becomes ever more pressing. The use of recycled concrete not only reduces environmental impact but also offers a cost-effective solution for foundation reinforcement. “This research demonstrates that sustainable construction practices can be both environmentally friendly and economically viable,” Markowska-Lech states.
The study’s findings suggest that recycled concrete and aggregates can play a crucial role in the future of wind turbine construction. By reducing reliance on newly produced materials, the energy sector can lower its carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. As the world continues to seek innovative solutions to environmental challenges, research like Markowska-Lech’s offers a beacon of hope and a roadmap for progress.
The research, published in the journal ‘Buildings’ (translated from Polish as ‘Budynki’), highlights the potential of recycled materials in the construction industry. As the energy sector strives for sustainability, the adoption of such innovative practices could shape the future of wind turbine foundations and beyond. The study’s insights are not just academic; they offer practical solutions that could revolutionize construction practices and pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.