Process parameter control, product characteristics, and high-value utilization pathways in decommissioned wind turbine blades pyrolysis: A review

A large-scale decommissioning wave of wind farms is approaching, pyrolysis has emerged as a promising technology for achieving both complete disposal and resource recovery of decommissioned wind turbine blades (DWTBs). This paper systematically reviews the research status and development trends of DWTBs pyrolysis technology, covering reactor types, process parameters, reaction mechanisms, catalytic pyrolysis, high-value utilization of products, and economic analysis. Research shows that the conveyor belt reactor has good potential for industrial application. To prevent structural degradation of the recovered fibers, the maximum pyrolysis temperature should be limited to 600 °C for glass fiber composites and 700 °C for carbon fiber composites. The pyrolysis temperature and heating rate have a decisive influence on the product distribution and fiber properties. Catalytic pyrolysis can enhance the selectivity of products, but it still faces problems such as catalyst deactivation. Among the pyrolysis products, the recovered fibers can be used for composite materials, the tar and pyrolysis gas have potential for energy and chemical utilization. Economic analysis shows that electricity costs account for more than 70% of the total expenses, and policy subsidies have a significant impact on profitability. Integrated technologies (such as coupling coal-fired boilers) can significantly reduce energy consumption and improve economic efficiency. In addition, the latest research status of DWTBs pyrolysis technology, the published patents, as well as the current research hotspots and difficulties, were analyzed, providing a reference for promoting the large-scale application and sustainable development of pyrolysis technology.