A comprehensive review of existing erosion protective coatings and practices for wind turbine blade surfaces

Wind turbine blades (WTBs) are constantly exposed to extreme environmental exposures such as rain, sand, UV radiation, humidity, thermal cycling, and icing, all of which impact their structural integrity as well as efficiency. Polymer-based protective coatings such as polyethylene oxide (PEO), polyurethane (PU), polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) are promising options due to their flexibilities, cost-effectiveness, and tunability. This review analyzes 80 laboratory studies on development and application of such coatings, using nanofillers and hybrid composites for performance enhancement. Spray coating, dip coating, electrospinning, and spin coating techniques are evaluated by erosion resistance, UV degradation, icing, and water vapor. Latest advances in self-healing and smart coatings are highlighted. Although promising laboratory results, long-term performance and environmental survivability under real-world conditions are not well understood. The research goals to establish the gaps in research and offer inputs on creating sustainable, multi-functional coatings for prolonging the working life of wind turbine blades.