Fiberglass (FG or FRP in Europe) has been the predominant material for both recreational and a significant portion of light commercial boatbuilding for many decades. It is a low maintenance, relatively inexpensive and highly durable,material. So durable in fact, that it’s decomposition half-life - except in direct sunlight - is generally measured in the 10’s of 1,000’s of years! However, FG/FRP in the water and/or sun begins to deteriorate in as little as 20 years and seldom lasts much longer than 50. FG/FRP boats are, unlike wooden boats, difficult to repair or restore. And the resin that makes up the bulk of the FG/FRP material, is overwhelmingly derived from petroleum, and thereby inherently high carbon. Furthermore, the embedded glass fibers make recycling extremely difficult and costly, so very little recycling of FG/FRP boats is done. As in buildings, extending the life and/or deeply retrofitting existing vessels creates the greenest vessels. And, there are some old and new ideas about alternative materials that can meet the use demands and simultaneous dramatically reduce the carbon. Let’s talk!
Hi Peter,
Just came across this thread. Your post is a few years old, but I’d be curious to talk if you’re still interested in this. I’m a liveaboard (trying to keep a 40+ year old fiberglass hull in use) and carbon specialist. This would be a fun topic to look at over time.
I’d love to do that, Jesce.
Are you familiar with MarineShift360? Looks promising for boat embodied carbon studies.
When would you like to talk and how? I’m out of town Monday and Tuesday, but have quite a few open enough times the rest of next week.
Thank you,
Peter
503-490-5407
Hi Peter,
I’m glad to have a call, but need to plan for a few weeks out. Had not seen MarineShift360 - thanks!
My contact is jesce.walz@perkinswill.com. Can we set schedule via email?
Best,
Jesce
We can. I am available during work hours (PDT) and days from September 25th through October 2nd. Any of those days work for you?
Peter