zerowhisper · Zero-power acoustic emission monitoring for wind turbine blades

Damage in composite wind turbine blades generates high-frequency acoustic emission (AE) signals as it forms—the earliest warning of incipient failure, often manifesting months before other signatures appear. Yet AE monitoring has seen limited adoption: current systems are expensive, power-hungry, fragile, and require dense sensor networks. I propose a zero-power, battery-free MEMS sensor that passively recognizes and remembers AE events using a mechanical neural network. Fabricated at ultra-low cost (cents per unit in mass production) and resilient to harsh offshore environments, these “sticker-like” sensors can be distributed across blades to provide continuous monitoring, with sensor readout achieved via low-cost RFID technology.The Proof of Concept zerowhisper builds directly on the ERC Starting Grant INFOPASS, where we have demonstrated MEMS devices that passively implement machine-learning acoustic classifiers. We will adapt this technology to detect AE from composite damage, integrate it into a packaged RFID sensor, and validate performance in realistic tests with industrial partners. Our project has the potential to revolutionize infrastructure monitoring by allowing zero-power, cheap ‘everywhere’ sensors that turn any asset into a self-monitoring smart structure. Zerowhisper will strengthen the European leadership in MEMS and renewable energy technology while reducing the cost and risk of wind power worldwide.