In the municipality of Almere, a former wind turbine blade has been transformed into the structural element of a 3D-printed modular bridge. The project, led by Poly Products, a company specializing in composite materials, is part of the Circular Viaduct program promoted by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
Second chance for an old wind turbine blade
The bridge is 12 meters long and 3 meters wide. Its design combines recycled thermoplastic and thermoset components, as well as a roadway made from recycled sheet piles. The foundation of the entire structure is a carefully processed wind turbine blade, significantly reducing the use of new raw materials.
One of the most innovative elements is the large-format 3D-printed rods, designed to connect the recycled blade to the bridge deck. These printed supports allow for adjustable width, support the railing, and facilitate modular assembly. The entire system has been designed to be disassembled and reused in future infrastructure projects.
The bridge’s development was the result of a collaboration between Poly Products, the engineering group Antea Group, the infrastructure company GKB, and the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences. Together, they sought to extend the lifespan of high-strength materials and showcase their potential in new structural applications.
Towards standardization
According to Michiel den Bruijcker, CEO of Poly Products, this project aims to make circular renovation a common practice. A patent is already pending for the structural design, and discussions are underway to replicate this solution elsewhere. The response has been positive, both technically and economically, as the bridge can be produced at a competitive cost in today’s market.
The reuse of wind turbine blades in construction opens a key debate in the field of sustainable infrastructure. With weather-resistant and lightweight materials, their second life in projects like this represents a viable, low-impact solution. Initiatives like that of Poly Products demonstrate that, with creativity and technology, the recycling of composite materials can be an integral part of modern urban development.
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Source and photo: Poly Products
