Confecção de concreto para fundações de torres eólicas pré-moldadas protendidas offshore

Abstract

In recent years, the search for renewable energy sources has intensified, driving the growth of wind energy in particular. Wind energy is obtained by harnessing the power of winds, which are converted into electricity through wind turbines. An increasingly promising variant of this technology is offshore wind energy, which refers to the generation of wind energy in the open sea. In this context, offshore foundations play a crucial role, providing structural support to wind turbines and enabling their installation in deep waters. In this discussion, we will explore the growth and potential of offshore wind energy, as well as the different types of foundations used in this rapidly expanding sector. The main focus of this study was to evaluate a concrete mix for exposure class CAA I. A concrete mix of 1:2.2:3.9 was tested with the aim of achieving a compressive strength of 20 MPa for use in the gravity foundations of offshore wind towers. Cylindrical molds measuring 10 cm (diameter) x 20 cm (height) were used to create the specimens, from which 15 units were molded and subjected to compressive strength tests after 28 days of curing. Water absorption tests were also performed. The results show that the tested mix successfully achieved the desired average compressive strength value of 20 MPa, according to ABNT NBR 6118:2014, as well as passed the absorption test, attaining a high-performance classification according to ABNT NBR 9778:2009, making it suitable for the described use in offshore wind tower foundations.