The Advantages and Challenges of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers for Tidal Current Turbine Systems - An Overview

Abstract

A significant step in reducing the effects of greenhouse gases is obtaining electric energy from renewable sources. Electricity from tidal currents using underwater turbines is one of the most promising and well-liked technologies. The turbine systems are the key element in the tidal current energy. They are built using hydrodynamic principles to extract the most power possible from tidal ocean currents and are designed to last for extended periods in a maritime environment. The performance of tidal turbines is also significantly influenced by their materials, i.e., carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) used in them. This paper also reviews the CFRP materials used in tidal current turbine systems. Besides, an analysis of their advantages and challenges regarding CFRP materials that can impact tidal current turbine efficiency is further explored.