Development and evaluation of glaciophobic materials to improve the performance of wind turbine blades in winter conditions

PROJECT COST:

1 066 773 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

481 773 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

Wind farms in Quebec face significant energy production losses during the winter months due to ice accumulation on turbine blades — losses that can reach up to 33 GWh and $2.5 million annually at sites like Mont Ste-Marguerite. These operational setbacks severely impact the profitability of existing wind farms, sometimes pushing them below the break-even point, and hinder the development of new wind energy projects in the province. As a result, Quebec’s capacity to expand its green energy portfolio is compromised at a time when clean energy is more crucial than ever.

To address this challenge, Professor Gelareh Momen and her research team at the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi (UQAC) are developing innovative glaciophobic and superhydrophobic coatings specifically engineered for the harsh conditions of Quebec winters. Informed by the detailed study of atmospheric conditions on active wind farms, these next-generation materials are designed to be applied to turbine blades to significantly reduce — or even prevent — ice formation and adhesion.

The performance and long-term durability of these coatings will be rigorously evaluated using advanced testing protocols developed at UQAC’s cutting-edge research facilities. These tests simulate real-world operational conditions to ensure the coatings are effective and reliable over extended periods.

Key Benefits of the Project:

Reduced Energy Losses: By minimizing ice accumulation, wind turbines will maintain higher levels of efficiency and output during winter, particularly when energy demand is at its peak.
Increased Profitability: Enhanced winter performance will improve the economic viability of existing wind farms and unlock the potential for new projects that were previously non-viable due to ice-related losses.
Support for Green Energy Expansion: With more consistent winter production, Quebec can strengthen its renewable energy supply and contribute more substantially to the fight against climate change.
Industrial Impact: The project will deliver state-of-the-art coatings and comprehensive performance data to turbine manufacturers, supporting their competitiveness in both local and international markets.
Training the Next Generation: The initiative will also contribute to workforce development, supporting one postdoctoral researcher, two PhD candidates, and three undergraduate students.

In summary, this project has the potential to revolutionize winter wind energy production in Quebec by offering a sustainable, science-driven solution to a long-standing problem, while also fostering innovation, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.