Bcomp announced that an eco-catamaran partially built with Bcomp's flax-fibre composite ampliTex™ has begun ferrying passengers around the Port of Rovinj in the Adriatic Sea. The first of its kind, the solar-powered PROeco vessel is the result of a two-and-a-half-year collaboration between Bcomp and Croatia-based marine manufacturer Marservis.
Bcomp's high-performance bio-composite material was used in the construction of almost all non-structural and semi-structural components of the vessel, including the bulkheads, seats, ceiling and side linings — and some parts of the floor. These parts were manufactured by combining ampliTex™ laminate with infusion bio-based epoxy resin through vacuum infusion and a resin transfer molding process.
Paolo Dassi, Marine & Industry Manager of Bcomp, said: "By combining renewable energy with natural fibre composites, this vessel represents the advent of a completely new stage in eco-friendly mass mobility on waterways. Not only does it reduce energy demands and emissions related to manufacturing, but it also allows for a substantial reduction in impacts throughout the vessel's operational life."
With capacity for 100 passengers and two crew, the PROeco is being used on short, defined routes for more than ten hours daily. The use of electric motors has resulted in a savings of 770 kg of harmful diesel emissions each day.
Luciano Beg, CEO of Marservis: "The cooperation from Bcomp was excellent, and the new owners are very satisfied with the PROeco's performance. We are already fielding inquiries from other companies in the EU about these PROeco catamarans."
Source: bcomp.com
