Wave energy technology development body Wave Energy Scotland has launched a £3m competitive call, the third in its series, seeking project proposals for materials and manufacturing processes for the construction of the wave energy converter (WEC) structure and prime mover.
The third call, which will assess the suitability of alternative materials for use in the wave energy sector, will focus on hybrid structures such as incorporating rotationally moulded polymers, fibre reinforced composites and/or steel, as well as elastomers which have a low modulus and a very high elastic strain range.
The projects will also focus on concretes which include high performance concrete, cement-replacement concretes, and replacements for steel reinforcement, as well as other alternative materials which reduce the cost of producing energy from waves.
Wave Energy Scotland managing director Tim Hurst said: “In our third call, we are very keen to engage materials developers and manufacturers from out-with the sector.
“Ultimately we want to see the collaboration between WEC developers and materials designers and manufacturers.
“When this happens on a wider scale, WES will take a huge step nearer to its goal to support the production of a wave energy device which will be economic to produce and survive the challenges of the marine environment.”
The research and development body expects the projects to deliver engineering design studies, address the wave energy converter design and assess the material’s ability to withstand the typical forces experienced by a converter.
Scottish Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy Paul Wheelhouse said: “Our decision to provide sustained funding has allowed Wave Energy Scotland to provide this great opportunity for innovative materials manufacturers to become involved in this unique program and to be part of a team developing genuinely novel ideas.”
Wave Energy Scotland will provide up to £250,000 per project for a12-month period.