State of the art in fatigue modelling of composite wind turbine blades

Abstract This paper provides a literature review of the most notable models relevant to the evaluation of the fatigue response of composite wind turbine blades. As wind turbines spread worldwide, ongoing research to maximize their lifetime – and particularly that of wind turbine blades – has increasingly popularized the use of composite materials, which boast attractive mechanical properties. The review first presents the wind turbine blade environment, before distributing fatigue models broadly between three categories: life-based failure criterion models, which are based on S-N curve formulations and constant-life diagrams to introduce failure criteria; residual property calculation models, which evaluate the gradual degradation of material properties; and progressive damage models, which model fatigue via the cycle-by-cycle growth of one or more damage parameters. These are then linked to current testing standards, databases, and experimental campaigns. Among the fatigue modelling approaches covered, progressive damage models appear to be the most promising tool, as they both quantify and qualify physical damage growth to a reasonable extent during fatigue. The lack of consensus and shortcomings of literature are also discussed, with abundant referencing.