Composite Materials Application In Boatbuilding

Composites offer the advantages of a higher strength to weight ratio than traditional wood or steel methods, and requires lower skill levels to produce an acceptable hull finish on a semi-industrial scale.

Since the 1950’s, resins (‘polyester’ and ‘vinylester’) have improved steadily and GRP has become without doubt the most prevalent composite used in boatbuilding. It is used in shipbuilding too, typically for minesweepers which need non-magnetic hulls. In the 21st century, volume GRP boat production follows a full Henry Ford-like industrial production process.

Wood/epoxy molding techniques are still in use today, typically for rowing skiffs. Other wood/adhesive composites have evolved since the introduction of high performance epoxy resins. ‘Strip planking’ is one such popular technique for home boat construction. Strips of wood (typically cedar) are laid longitudinally over frames and coated with epoxy. This simple construction offer a cheap and strong build with a fair finish easily achievable by an amateur.

At the leading edge of boatbuilding, we are now seeing aramid fiber reinforcing being used to strengthen key areas of sailboats, such as the bows and keel sections. Aramid fiber also provides improved shock absorption. Carbon fiber masts are increasingly common, as they offer major performance and vessel stability benefits.

Sailboats also use composites in their sail construction, with carbon fiber or glass fiber tape being used as a flexible but dimensionally stable matrix to which synthetic sailcloth is laminated.

Materials science and composite technology are advancing rapidly, and new composites include carbon nanotube and epoxy mixtures. Recently, a small naval vessel with a hull built using carbon nanotubes was delivered as a concept project.

Lightness, strength, durability and ease of production mean that composites will play an increasing part in boat construction. Despite all the new composites, FRP Composites is here to stay for very many years though it will surely be in partnership with other exotic composites.

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