Abstract - Recently, publications displaying landfills dominated by wind turbine blades, composed primarily of composite materials, have caused public anxieties to rise. Though there has been much research analyzing the benefits of thermoplastic alternatives, such substances, though preferable, are limited by long degradation rates. Though biodegradable plastics have been a topic of discussion, many produce greenhouse gasses as they degrade, further harming the atmosphere. Compostable plastics, a subcategory of biodegradable plastics, have been largely overlooked as wind turbine blade material alternatives. The following research filled this gap through the creation of chitosan-based compostable wind turbine blades. Chitosan is a chemical present in the shells of Brachyura (crabs) including the invasive Hemigrapsus sanguineus (Asian Shore Crab) species. In addition to these shells, chitosan supplements, glycerin, vinegar, and distilled water, was used in the creation of three batches of two identical blades. A small-scale wind turbine was The Efficacy of Chitosan on the Construction and Function of Compostable Wind Turbine Blades Cathrine Sakin produced in addition to a wind tunnel. These blades were tested for voltage production (with the wind turbine and tunnel produced) and minimum tensile strength. This research resulted in the creation of an environmentally ideal, industrially applicable, compostable wind turbine blade material alternative while providing a purpose to the otherwise harmful and invasive Asian Shore Crab species. Keywords: Compostable plastic, Hemigrapsus sanguineus, Brachyura, chitin, wind turbine blades, voltage production, tensile strength Introductory Information Research Question Can Hemigrapsus sanguineus invertebrates and alternate Brachyura shells be utilized in the creation of compostable, structurally sound, and energy-efficient wind turbine blades? 7 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 Hypothesis The Hemigrapsus sanguineus (Asian Shore Crab) invertebrate and alternate Brachyura shells will aid in the production of structurally sound, energy-efficient, compostable wind turbine blades; providing a superior alternative to common, non-compostable, glass and carbon fiber situated blades whilst providing a purpose to the invasive Asian Shore Crab species. Literature Review The Wind Industry and Compostable Plastic The demand for renewable energy has increased precipitously over the past decade, as society has become more environmentally conscious. This is evident in the inclining rates of wind power utilization globally. According to the University of Michigan, “The U.S. wind capacity increased by 166% between 2010 and 2020, a 10% average annual increase” (Center for Sustainable Systems, 2020). In addition, within a single year, “Total capacity for wind energy globally [in 2019 was] over 651 GW, an increase of 10 percent compared to 2018” (GWEC, 2020). Evidently, the wind industry has gained much traction, and understandably so; “The main advantages [of wind energy] include an unlimited, free, renewable resource (the wind itself), economic value, [relatively low] maintenance cost, and [simple] placement of wind harvesting facilities,” allowing such mechanisms to rise in global preference (Lloyd, 2014). Though wind energy is an environmentally superior alternative to fossil fuel and finite energy reliance, an analysis into the construction of wind turbines uncovers a significant, negatively impactful flaw. The majority of wind turbine blades, primarily composed of composite materials similar to, and including, glass and carbon fibers, prove arduous to recycle. Due to this lack of reprocessing capability, there are multiple landfills hosting such blades; wind turbine blades are typically replaced every 10-20 years, and the most common blades are formulated of plastics with decomposition durations of 200-400 years (Image 1). Image 1 Comparison of predicted degradation profiles for HDPE pieces with the same mass, density, and SSDR but different shapes (thin film, fiber, and bead) 8 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 This problem has made headlines in recent years within reputable publications such as NPR and BBC News. Researchers globally have instigated scientific inquiries pertaining to possible solutions and prevailing disposal options. One of the most popular innovations is the development of thermoplastic-situated wind turbine blades. These blades are easily recyclable, and simplicity in repairs proves economically viable. Though such solutions aid in the recyclability and longevity of the wind turbine blades, this does little to lessen the duration of deterioration. Even with the superior recyclability and durability of these blades, replacements must occur. There are some who believe that the resolution resides in any biodegradable plastics; the reason being the misconstrued perception that materials under this category are environmentally advantageous in all forms. Though advertised as the global “cure” to pollution, many biodegradable plastics (bioplastics) emit greenhouse gasses during decomposition, further harming natural surroundings. Compostable plastics are a subcategory of bioplastics; these materials not only decompose at favorable rates but also produce beneficial products for the soil after they undergo composting treatments. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in order for plastics to be classified as compostable, “[they must be able to be] broken down by biological treatment at a commercial or industrial composting facility… Decomposition of the plastic must occur at a rate similar to the other elements of the material being composted (within 6 months) and leave no toxNote: Chart by Scott, S. L., Suh, S., Chamas, A., Moon, H., Zheng, J., Qiu, Y., . . . AbuOmar, M. Published February 3, 2020. As is evident, for plastics composed of fibres (glass and carbon), the duration of decomposition may range between approximately 200 and 400 years . 9 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 ic residue that would adversely impact the ability of the finished compost to support plant growth,” (page 3, 2020). For these reasons, identified by the EPA, compostable plastics are the environmentally superior alternatives to non-recyclable and even most biodegradable materials; proving necessary in modern research, especially for products requiring a vast amount of polymer reliant substances. Chitin and Chitosan The foundation of all plastics are polymers, though the same cannot be said about the reverse. Polymers are chains of repeating monomers, and, though all plastics are composed of these chains, certain polymers must be altered to be implemented in plastics; it is significant to note that there are natural and synthetic polymers. Synthetic polymers are derived from petroleum oil to form nylon, polyester, teflon, polyethylene, and similar substances. Natural polymers are very common in many forms, including polysaccharides: “polymer[s] composed of sugar molecules,” appearing significant for the survival of many species (Encyclopedia Britannica, 2020). Notably, cellulose is a necessary polysaccharide in animals, starch in plants, and chitin in many crustaceans, including lobsters, isopods, and crabs. Furthermore, according to Daniel Elieh-AliKomi, a senior researcher at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, and Michael R. Hamblin, professor at Harvard Medical School, “Chitin is the most abundant aminopolysaccharide polymer occurring in nature” and the second most abundant natural biopolymer (2016). Chitin is a significant resource and is gaining popularity in current research inquiries; this is due to its vast presence, in addition to its ease in attainability, as chitin is removable from the shells of crustaceans. Advantageous properties of chitin include biodegradability and a lack of toxicity, making chitin a preferred material in the creation of biomedical devices (Daraghmeh, N., 2011). Chitin is also, however, insoluble. Solubility is an important factor in the creation of plastics. For this reason, those using chitin often alter the polymer into chitosan, a deacetylated derivative of chitin with the ability to dissolve in acidic solutions. This soluble alternative does not alter the biodegradability; the process of chitosan creation involves the removal of calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, and N-acetyl groups. In addition, though many methods of transforming chitin to chitosan include heavy chemicals which may prove harmful to the environment, friendlier alternatives, such as the use of enzymes during deproteinization and deacetylation, should be considered. 10 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 The Asian Shore Crab and Novel Plastics Long Island and the East Coast of the United States have experienced an increase in the invasive Asian Shore Crab (Hemigrapsus sanguineus) population for the majority of the years between 1994 and 2005 (Kraemer, G., 2007). These species are still believed to be a significant issue locally and sightings are encouraged to be reported immediately, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (2020). Asian Shore Crabs, primarily from East Asia, harm local biodiversity and, often, lessen the native populations. Asian Shore Crabs are known to consume native crabs, including the “Carcinus maenas (Green Crab), Mytilus edulis (Blue Mussel), and Littorina littorea (Common Periwinkle);” also noteworthy, the population of Asian Shore Crabs has been increasing significantly north of Cape Cod, increasing concerns that these damaging and “dramatic changes in community structure may be widespread,” or more so than they already are (Bloch et al., 2015). Asian Shore Crabs are able to withstand tremendous changes in temperature, providing an explanation for their large presence on the East Coast of the United States: Approximately 7,000 miles away from their native settings. This ability of the Asian Shore crabs allows them to survive the grueling journey from East Asia through the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, consisting of temperatures averaging around 3.5°C in the Pacific and 30°C in the Atlantic, tides as strong as 40 feet near Canada, and increasingly powerful winds. These organisms are resilient and, though significantly impactful, laws and reporting sites/methods, such as iMapInvasive and state-specific departments, have limits: namely, the general public’s ability to differentiate between species. For this reason, human intervention is an alternative worthy of consideration. Researchers at the Georgia Institute of technology, on July 23, 2018, published information on their creation of a novel, compostable plastic out of the chitin and derivatives located in crab shells. This creation made headlines, as it proposed the opportunity to incorporate this environmentally superior plastic in the food packaging industry. This research also emphasized the revolutionary ability to incorporate crabs and other crustaceans in the development of compostable plastics for alternate purposes (Brown, 2018). Though there has been much research pertaining to the use of chitin, found in crab shells, in the creation of plastics for food packaging, there has been no research on the use of such crustaceans in the creation of plastic for wind turbine blades specifically; much less research is available investigating the incorporation of invasive crab species in 11 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 the production of such plastics. In addition, there have been inquiries investigating the efficacy of thermoplastics and recyclable alternatives in the creation of wind turbine blades, however, the use of compostable plastics for this purpose has been overlooked. The following research filled both gaps in the scholarly conversation, while providing a purpose to the otherwise harmful and invasive Hemigrapsus sanguineus species, commonly referred to as the Asian Shore Crab. Methodology The following methodology consists of a creation process and data collection process with the purpose of answering the question posed: Can Hemigrapsus sanguineus and alternate Brachyura (crab) shells be utilized in the creation of structurally sound, energy-efficient, compostable wind turbine blades? The creation process addresses plastic production, wind turbine production, and wind tunnel production. The data collection process includes material testing through two methods (voltage production and material testing). The creation process of this research was designed with the intention of producing compostable wind turbine blades and utensils with which to test these blades. The data collection process of this research endeavor attempted to prove that these blades are structurally sound and energy-efficient. Refer to Figure 1 for a simplified overview of the overall approach (and subcomponents). Figure 1 Flowchart of Methodology Consisting of Two Parts (Creation and Data Collection Processes) Note: The products developed in the Creation Process were then utilized in the Voltage Production portion of the Data Collection Process. Additional material testing was also conducted in this portion. Creation Process Plastic Production A metal container was situated over a hot plate (off). In this canister, 1g of powdered crab shells (including the Asian Shore Crab invertebrate), 30 g of 90% deacetylated and powdered chitosan, 12 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 20 ml of glycerin, 150 ml of distilled water, and 20 ml of vinegar were added. All ingredients were mixed prior to the instigation of the hot plate. Mixing continued at a constant, medium-pace as the hot plate was turned on low (around 30 degrees celsius). The solution in the pan was mixed with increasing heat for 30 minutes (final temperature measurement of 60 degrees celsius) until a paste-like substance with low viscosity was formed (30 minutes total on heat). The mixture was then poured into two identical molds (image 2). Image 2 Solution Poured Into Two Identical Clay Molds Covered in Aluminim Foil Note: These molds were produced with clay and prepared in a common oven at a temperature of 135°C for 360 minutes. They were then covered in aluminum foil. The plastic was left to cool at room temperature for 72 hours before removal from molds. It is significant to note that this procedure produced one batch of two identical blades. These steps were then repeated 2 more times to produce 3 total batches of two identical blades each (6 blades total). It should be noted that chitosan is often a large component of commercially sold compost, and crab shells are often used in homes to produce compost. This method is an alteration of approaches emphasized by Stanford University (Sullivan, n.d.) and Oregon State University (Oregon State University, 2010). The original materials published by these institutions emphasized the use of starch rather than chitin and its chitosan derivative. Starchbased biodegradable plastics are prevalent commercially, however, virgin starch (more common than reclaimed starch) plastics result in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during production and cultivation. The compostable plastic produced with chitin at the Georgia Institute of Technology was revolutionary for its use of a superior alternative to starch. This method was created with consideration of all of the above information. Wind Tunnel Production Measurements, which were reliant on the diameters of the fan utilized, resulted in a flow straightener of equivalent height and width to the fan and a flow straightener with a length equivalent to about half of the height of the fan. With cardboard tubing, the 13 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 flow straightener was created and attached to the head of the fan (with a commercially sold adhesive). The 1 cm outermost end of the perimeter of the straightener was then connected to the contraction segment composed, also, of cardboard (45-degree angle inward). This wind tunnel was produced with the purpose of providing a constant, controlled environment during the data collection portion of this research. The materials utilized in the production of this necessary utensil were selected due to their ability to control the path of the air in motion, as well as their availability and accessibility. PVC Pipe Wind Turbine Production A T-fitting was placed on the end of a PVC pipe, 24 inches in length. A hole was drilled in the lid of a large plastic container, and the bottom half of the T-fitting was situated in the lid. Next, the nacelle was prepared. For the nacelle, a three-inch segment and a one-inch segment were sawed off of a second 24 inch PVC pipe. A 90-degree fitting was secured on one end of the threeinch segment, and a coupler was situated on the opposite end. The one-inch segment was fitted into the coupler. The circumference of the motor was covered in duct tape (for secure placement) and placed ½ an inch into the one-inch segment. The motor wires were eased through the nacelle and PVC body. The nacelle was connected to the body (24-inch) and the ends of the wires were released through the 90-degree angle of the T-Fitting. Using alligator clips, the wires were connected to the multimeter (set at DCV 20). The crimping hub was then attached to the motor and everything was checked for security. The large plastic canister was filled halfway with weights, and the lid of the canister, with PVC pipe wind turbine attached, was secured on top of the canister. The production of this PVC pipe wind turbine was requisite in order to test the blades for energy efficiency. See images of construction in the Appendix. Data Collection Process For voltage production testing, the two identical blades from batch one were attached to the crimping hub. The PVC pipe wind turbine, with blades, was then placed five inches away from the flow contraction segment of the wind tunnel, and the voltage production was observed (on the multimeter, set to DC Volt setting at 20 volts) for 30 seconds per trial (ten trials per batch). These blades were then removed and replaced by the remaining two batches (4 blades), two blades at a time, for the same observational approach. Additionally, the tensile strength was calculated for one blade from each batch (3 total 14 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 blades were tested). First, the cross-section area for each of the three blades was calculated, and the initial length of each blade was noted. Next, The blades were secured, vertically, against a wooden platform (blades were at rest, Fnet = 0N). The blades were then connected to more than 304.5 kg worth of mass (this value was multiplied by an acceleration of -10m/s/s for an approximate force of weight). To calculate the strength of the material, the engineering stress—load (applied force) divided by the cross-section area—and engineering strain—displacement (appearing minimal) divided by the initial length—were calculated. With these variables, the stressstrain response was analyzed, in addition to a Young’s modulus, to determine the strength of the polymer independent of its size. It should be noted that the blades at no point fractured, so a complete stressstrain curve was not constructed for the analysis of blade strength. Rather, these calculations produced a minimum strength calculation. Results and Analysis Results Voltage Production Raw Data During voltage production testing, six blades in total were analyzed in pairs. Each batch (pair) was tested for voltage production ten times, resulting in 30 datum points. The average voltage production for all three batches was as follows: 0.65 volts, 0.91 volts, 1.20 volts. These values produced a cumulative average of 0.92 volts. Datum points recorded in Table 2 (may be viewed in the appendix) were analyzed with a one-sample, single-tailed T-test. To conduct this test, the standard deviation, mean, and assumed mean were calculated, as displayed in Table 3 (may be viewed in the appendix). The result obtained was approximately 7.1. Using the value of 29 as the degree of freedom, and analyzing the 99% confidence interval, the null hypothesis (there is no correlation between the material used and the average voltage produced) was rejected. In addition, alternate central tendency statistics were analyzed as visible in Table 1. Table 1 Central Tendencies Displayed During Voltage Production Tendencies Batch One (volts) Batch Two (volts) Batch Three (volts) Average: 0.65 0.91 1.20 Median: 0.65 0.91 1.20 Mode: 0.62 0.88 1.20 15 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 Note: These central tendencies clarify the extent to which each blade appeared common/similar These statistical central tendencies, though similar per batch, appeared in variety most likely due to the varying temperatures during the setting of the blades. To avoid variation in future studies, an environment of more constant temperature should be procured. Regardless, the minimal variation of inter-blade central tendencies supports the validity of this portion of the data collection process (the second component of the overall methodology). Material Testing Raw Data Tensile strength was analyzed through the utilization of mass greater than 304.5 kg and, consequently, a force greater than approximately 3,045 N. Three blades (one from each batch/pair), were analyzed. All three blades withstood this force and displayed minimal elongation (around 0.5 cm). The cross-sectional area measured for all blades was approximately 47.7 cm squared. The initial length for all blades analyzed was, approximately, 10.6 cm. With this information, a minimum engineering stress of 92.6 psi was calculated, in addition to a strain of 0.04, and Young’s modulus of 245.4 psi. Data Analysis Voltage Production: Objectives and Results The expected outcome for this portion of the approach was voltage production of approximately 0.4 - 0.8 volts, as this is the average for the majority of PVC pipe wind turbines with similar wind energy. Voltage production on such small-scale objects relies on many factors (pitch, number of blades, blade shape, total drag, and much more), making such endeavors less valid than material testing. The material of the blade is not the only aspect necessary to consider when observing voltage production, displaying a limit of this portion of the methodology. To defend this above-average voltage production, and this portion of the methodology, a T-test was conducted. As stated prior, the null hypothesis was rejected, supporting that, despite the impact of outside variables, the material utilized significantly contributed to the above-average voltage production. To further defend the purpose of the voltage production portion of the data collection process, it should be noted that this segment of the research approach did prove that the plastic described in the method above is able to hold the capacity for sufficient implementation in the wind industry. This method supports the ability of this material to take the shape of a blade mold and hold it well enough for above-average voltage 16 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 production. The T-test value supports that voltage production of this material produces greater voltage to a significant extent in comparison to the average voltage production of similar turbines under comparable conditions (0.4 - 0.8 volts, though the average, 0.6 volts, was used to calculate the T-test value). This approach also indicated the level of simplicity that should be associated with the formation of this substance for the specific purpose of wind turbine blade production. According to the United States Energy Information Administration, energy efficiency is defined as “using technology that requires less energy to perform the same function,” (2020). The above-average voltage production observed by the blades created (0.92 volts) signifies that Hemigrapsus sanguineus invertebrates and alternate Brachyura shells can be utilized in the creation of compostable and, presumably, “energy-efficient” wind turbine blades: These blades can be composed and adjusted (was proven in this portion of the data collection process) to meet the requirements of the other aforementioned factors for maximum energy production with minimal-effort/simplicity (less energy required for an above-average result). Further Analysis of Compostability The following is an analysis and defense of the materials utilized in the production of this novel plastic (and their contributions towards the compostability of the plastic): As stated prior, chitin is a polymer found in crab shells (a common component of compost) and chitosan is a soluble, deacetylated derivative. Vinegar is commonly added to compost to prevent weed growth and add necessary nutrients. Powdered crab shells contain both chitin and calcium carbonate. Though crab shells are known to be compostable, the presence of calcium carbonate should be further emphasized, as calcium carbonate raises the pH of soils. As is common knowledge, soils are most efficient when possessing a pH of between 5.5 and 6.5, often making calcium carbonate a necessity in compost. Dihydrogen monoxide is needed for plant development and is a natural compound. This leaves the added 20 ml of glycerin. Glycerin was utilized as a “plasticizer” and, though many may argue glycerin may negatively impact the environment, in such small quantities “glycerin does not affect the quality of the final compound[s] [in composts],” (Fehmberger et al., 2019). Cumulatively, it is evident that the plastic produced is compostable and beneficial to the environment. Material Testing: Objectives and Results Material testing proves, definitively, the efficacy of certain materials in their ap- 17 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 plication within the wind industry. The objective of this research was to create compostable—through the use of materials listed prior—energy-efficient—determined by the voltage production portion of this research—and structurally sound—determined through material testing—wind turbine blades. As this plastic was composed in a home environment (due to school and facility closures), quality-impacting flaws were inevitable, though limited with great care in production. The average tensile yield strength of the recent, and preferred, thermoplastics used in wind turbine blades is approximately 3.2x10^3 psi. The objective of this research was to produce plastic with a tensile strength of at least 640 psi (one-fifth of 3.2x10^3) or 44.8 atmospheres. Though unable to attain access to necessary machinery to calculate the exact tensile strength of this novel plastic, a minimum stress and strain were calculated. These values, with minimal elongation, support that this material would most likely reach, if not surpass, the objective of 640 psi. The Young’s modulus of 245.4 psi further validates this claim. Conclusions and Implications The hypothesis was determined to be accurate: the Hemigrapsus sanguineus (Asian Shore Crab) invertebrate and alternate Brachyura (crab) shells, due to the large presence of chitosan, aided in the production of structurally sound, energy-efficient, compostable wind turbine blades; providing a superior alternative to common, non-recyclable, glass and carbon fiber situated blades, whilst also providing a purpose to the otherwise harmful and invasive Asian Shore Crab species; successfully filling both aforementioned gaps in the scholarly conversation. This research holds implications within the wind industry and material science fields, though potentially limited geographically: where there is not enough land for efficient wind farm instigation (or resources for offshore wind farming), where wind energy is not publicly supported. It should be noted, however, that wind energy is gaining popularity globally, so the impact of this research may prove more widespread as years progress. Also, this research created a path for novel inquiries in this field. Evidently, chitosan-based compostable plastic is a viable alternative to common wind turbine blades, however, this data cannot be applied for all types of compostable plastics. MF-Chitosan plastics should be investigated, due to the superior solubility of MF-Chitosan in comparison to chitosan, in addition to chitosan-paramylon blends. Paramylon is found in the Euglena gracilis protists and is known to contribute to the strength of many thermoplastic substances. The inclusion of this polymer would most likely aid in increasing the structural 18 • NYCSEA Vol. 2 ISBN 979-8-89238-262-5 JSEA-Social Economics & Applied Science | NYCSEA - Vol. 2 integrity of this novel, chitosan-based plastic, without harming the compostable nature of the substance. In addition, this research provided an additional purpose for human intervention in the lessening of Asian Shore Crab populations (the creation of this polymer) in locations where these organisms are considered a concern, displaying implications in the safeguarding of biodiversity on the eastern coast of the United States of America. This, of course, would impact, in a positive manner, those who live in locations such as Connecticut and Long Island (Dauvin, Rius, Ruellet, 2009). This would especially aid those who make a living off of crustacean sails, such as local eateries and Bait and Tackle stores; there are laws restricting the sale of Asian Shore Crabs in these areas. Asian Shore Crabs lessen the population of crabs these communities may profit from, lessening the strength of the national economy as a whole. Further research should be conducted to emphasize the validity of these results; further material testing is essential. Recommended testing includes compression testing, oxidative degradation testing, and shear force testing. Though the minimum tensile strength calculated proved that these blades are structurally sound, these additional forms of material testing would further emphasize the extent to which this plastic is structurally viable; which the data presented in this paper cannot do. In addition, though these blades are energy-efficient (determined by the above-average voltage production, and validated by the T-test), this data cannot confirm the extent to which they are energy-efficient. A more specific analysis into the energy-efficiency of this novel plastic should be instigated. Again, it should be emphasised that through methods consisting of a creation process and data collection process, this single engineering-situated research inquiry aided in the lessening of consequences associated with two separate complications; these were two gaps in the scholarly conversation. These gaps were filled through the provision of a purpose for human intervention in the increasing invasive crab species populace, and through the creation of a novel wind turbine blade material alternative. Ultimately, a path was paved for research hereafter. A path of future inquiries with which limits will be mitigated and implications escalated. A path which may lead to the preservation of Earth and its many magnificent ecosystems.