Chapter 8: Wind Turbines

This chapter stresses the importance of powerful magnets for electricity generation in wind turbines. It also makes a distinction between energy and power. Materials for construction of wind turbines, in particular thermosetting plastics and thermoplastics as well as a discussion of composite materials is given. Concrete and steel are not critical materials but are essential for construction of wind turbines. Concrete manufacture is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions as cement, an intermediate material releases carbon dioxide in its production and conversion to clinker, while emissions also arise from combustion of fossil fuels to heat kilns. Methods for production of steel are briefly covered. The chapter includes a description of different types of polymers and plastics, as well as epoxy resins.