Iowa plant mechanically recycles wind turbine blades into construction additives

Regen Fiber launched a production line in Fairfax, Iowa, in 2024 to recycle retired wind turbine blades without using heat or chemicals. The process first extracts reusable components, then mechanically shreds the blades, producing fiberglass and polyester-based fibers and powders. These by-products are marketed to concrete, mortar and asphalt manufacturers, with claims of enhanced durability and environmental resistance.

Jeff Woods, Travero’s business development director, highlighted the potential for stronger infrastructure. The Fairfax plant targets more than 30,000 tons of blade material annually on a one-shift schedule. Regen Fiber also runs a Des Moines facility handling manufacturing scrap and a Lubbock, Texas site processing end-of-life blades from the southwestern United States.