Renewable energy

What are Renewable Energies?

Renewable energies are energy sources that regenerate naturally and can be used sustainably. These include solar energy, wind power, hydropower, biomass and geothermal energy. In contrast to fossil fuels, renewable energies contribute to the reduction of CO² emissions and are a central component of the energy transition.

High-performance plastics in the renewable energies sector

The use of high-performance plastics plays an essential role in the development and optimisation of renewable energy technologies. Plastics offer decisive advantages such as high weather resistance, low density, chemical resistance and excellent electrical insulation properties. Our high-performance plastics support manufacturers and operators of plants for generating renewable energies in improving the efficiency and longevity of their systems.

The following are used as high-performance plastics:

• PA (polyamide)– gear components for wind power
• GRP (glass-fibre reinforced plastic) – rotor blades
• PEEK (polyetheretherketone) – high-performance components for solar installations
• PC (polycarbonate) – protective covers for solar panels

Plastics for wind energy

Wind turbines are exposed to extreme weather conditions. Our materials contribute to weight reduction, vibration damping and corrosion resistance. Areas of application include:

• Rotor blades: High-strength composite materials such as glass-fibre reinforced and carbon-fibre reinforced plastics (GRP, CFRP)
• Plain bearings and bearing bushes: Highly wear-resistant plastics such as PEEK and PA
• Seals and cable insulation: UV- and weather-resistant materials such as PTFE and TPE

Plastics for the solar industry

In photovoltaics, durable and weather-resistant plastics are required that withstand both UV radiation and temperature fluctuations. Our materials are used in:

• Frames and mounts: High-performance polycarbonates and modified polyurethanes
• Insulation layers for solar modules: Fluoropolymers and silicone plastics
• Protective films: Highly transparent and resistant ETFE films

Plastics in hydropower

Hydropower plants rely on plastics that have high resistance to moisture, pressure and chemical influences. Our materials are used in:

• Seals and bearing elements: PTFE and POM
• Guide vanes and turbine elements: Fibre-reinforced plastics
• Corrosion protection coatings: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polyurethane coatings

Plastics for biomass and geothermal technology

The utilisation of biomass and the use of geothermal energy require materials with high chemical resistance. Our plastics are ideal for:

• Pipelines and seals: Chemical-resistant materials such as PVDF and PTFE
• Pump housings and filter elements: High-performance PA and PPS
• Thermal insulation: Special insulating plastics such as PUR foams

Your advantages with our high-performance plastics

Our materials for the renewable energies sector offer the following advantages:

• Weight reduction: Ideal for lightweight construction in wind turbines and solar modules
• Long service life: High resistance to UV radiation, chemicals and mechanical loads
• Cost efficiency: Reduced maintenance effort and longevity lead to lower operating costs
• Sustainability: Many of our plastics are recyclable and contribute to conserving resources

Conclusion

Thermoplastic plastics are essential components in the development and optimisation of renewable energy technologies. With our broad portfolio of high-performance plastics, we offer innovative solutions for wind power, solar energy, hydropower, biomass and geothermal energy. Rely on our expertise and experience to make your projects more sustainable and more efficient.

Contact us for individual advice and find out more about our plastic solutions for renewable energies!