SUNsation 52
The SUNsation 52 project will introduce an innovative eco-catamaran constructed entirely from natural and sustainable materials, including woven flax fibers and bio-based epoxy resin. The vessel will be exclusively powered by electric motors, utilizing energy collected from photovoltaic solar panels, ensuring emission-free navigation.
A private investor will utilize the catamaran for a global expedition aimed at collecting and analyzing ocean water samples to assess pollution levels. The gathered data will contribute to scientific research and raise awareness about the critical importance of ocean conservation and sustainable maritime development.
Before developing the laminate plan, the proposed catamaran laminate, NFC (natural fiber laminate) was tested by the FSB (the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, Zagreb), on a Shimadzu tensile testing machine.
The catamaran hull has been constructed using advanced vacuum infusion technology with bio-based epoxy resin and flax fibers in a sandwich construction. Recycled PET material was used as the core in the sandwich structure, further highlighting the ecological aspect of the entire project. The hull is further reinforced with longitudinal and transverse bulkheads made from lightweight and durable paulownia wood.
To ensure complete sealing of the vacuum bag and high quality of the vacuum infusion process, we used Acoustic Imaging Leak Detection Camera FLIR Si124-LD
Since we used more than 2700 kg of bio-epoxy resin in just 6 hours during the vacuum infusion of the catamaran hulls, we monitored the curing process using a thermal camera to ensure a uniform thermal reaction within the permitted limits.
The catamaran hull has been constructed using advanced vacuum infusion technology with bio-based epoxy resin and flax fibers in a sandwich construction. Recycled PET material was used as the core in the sandwich structure, further highlighting the ecological aspect of the entire project. The hull is further reinforced with longitudinal and transverse bulkheads made from lightweight and durable paulownia wood.
We are currently producing deck components, hull floor elements and superstructure elements that will be combined into a functional unit.
