Posters

Abstract

Dense fluids can be formulated from inert tailings ponds and dumpsites. They can be used as passive and active ballast for offshore wind turbines. Because of their permanent fluidity, density and low cost, these fluids allow new designs with significant advantages, for example, more compact floater columns that need less draught and can be fabricated in smaller ports, so that local content and jobs remain in the area closest to the wind farms, ensuring local support. O&M can also be improved, because dense fluids can be efficiently and swiftly handled with compressed air. As the turbines scale up to 15 or even 20 MW, active ballasting with seawater requires large, powerful pumps that are difficult to service and remain idle most of the time, because it is not possible to store energy in the water. Dense fluids can move with small air compressors that feed a pressure vessel, so a large burst of energy is immediately available, even in a black out situation. We have located reserves of more than 100,000 tons and are in contact with technologists to include dense fluids in their prototypes. We feel the industry should know about these developments. The base materials are stored in ponds and dumpsites and their removal allows land to be restored to its initial state.