UMaine Advanced Structures & Composites Center’s Post

I am pleased to share my first journal article of my PhD! In this paper, we introduce a novel rapid preliminary design tool for minimizing substructure masses. Using this tool, we present a validation case study with the VolturnUS-S, and examine design trends for mass-optimized concrete VolturnUS hulls across the 10-30 MW range for three different wave environments. Our findings reveal that the mass-efficiency of hulls improves as turbine capacity increases from 10 MW to 30 MW, although the rate of improvement decreases. We also showed that the mass efficiency of hull designs diminishes with more severe wave environments. While there are potential gains in mass-efficiency with larger turbines, these benefits taper off in the 20-30 MW range compared to the 10-20 MW range. Furthermore, significant practical barriers related to constructability, industrialization, and deployment currently limit the feasibility of moving to the higher end of the turbine capacity range presented. Thank you to my advisors Dr. Andrew Goupee and Dr. Anthony Viselli for your invaluable support and mentorship throughout this work! Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e9S-P2q3 #RenewableEnergy #OffshoreWind #FOWT #VolturnUS #SustainableEngineering #PhDResearch

This year, Manufacturing RENEW3D is back at The University of Maine! We are also combining efforts with the University of Maine Office of Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Resources, and Engagement and the UMaine Process Development Center for first annual #MaineForestBiomaterialsWeek. This 3-day event will feature Manufacturing #RENEW3D and two other exciting events: 🏠🌳 On August 27, Manufacturing RENEW3D 2024 will highlight innovations in sustainable materials and efficient manufacturing methods applied to the critical national need for affordable housing. Thought leaders and innovators will discuss key challenges and solutions in technology, policy, and regulations, highlighting automation, digitalization and 3D printing. 🌲🔬 On August 28, the Forest Bioproducts Advanced Manufacturing Tech Hub Showcase will celebrate Maine's designation as a Tech Hub, accelerating research and development of natural polymers and wood fiber bioproducts that can sequester carbon, replace plastics and toxic chemicals, and bolster "Made in America" supply chain goals. 🧑🔬 On August 28 and 29, the 6th Annual Cellulose Nanomaterials Forum, hosted by the UMaine Process Development Center, will connect with researchers and scientists working with cellulose nanomaterials and explore new applications and innovations. Plus, explore the latest research and innovations - from forests to field to sea - during our poster session, featuring presentations from students, researchers and industry experts. Register now and enjoy a $50 discount on general registration until Monday, July 15, 2024. You won't want to miss out on this unique opportunity! Learn more and register today at our event page: https://lnkd.in/ecitDUNK Follow us here and fill out the emailing list form on our website to stay up to date on all conference announcements! https://lnkd.in/edC25G2k #UMaine #Maine #AffordableHousing #sustainability #networking #innovation #3DPrinting