Non-metallic lightning strike protection coating for wind-turbine blades

Abstract

The increasing use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) composites in the wind energy industry presents a challenge concerning lightning strike protection (LSP). Due to their low electrical conductivity, these materials are inferior to metals in dissipating electrical currents generated by lightning strikes, potentially leading to catastrophic damage. The current LSP system for wind turbine blades involves metallic lightning arrestors, which may only sometimes be effective due to the accumulation of debris and salt on other parts of the blade. Other commercially available products, such as diverter strips and nano-filler coatings, are expensive and impractical for use throughout the entire blade. Recently, researchers have proposed using electrically conductive polymeric coatings as a potential solution. These coatings are easy to apply and can be spray-coated, painted, or manufactured via automation. In this study, newly developed polymeric coating solutions were experimentally tested and compared to traditional metallic-based LSP systems. The experiments showed promising results in dissipating the current generated by lightning strikes. In addition, the thicker coatings reduced catastrophic damage, including puncture, fiber breakage, and resin evaporation, compared to thinner coatings. Overall, the study highlights the potential of polymeric coatings as a viable solution for lightning strike protection in the wind energy industry.